SMWD Awarded $1.7M in Federal Grants to Strengthen Local Water Reliability by Santa Margarita Water District Feb 27, 2026 Member Submitted News Santa Margarita Water District has secured $1.7 million in federal grant funding, thanks to the continued leadership and support of Congressman Mike Levin and Congresswoman Young Kim. This critical funding will advance key infrastructure projects that enhance water reliability, improve water quality, and protect the environment. Each dollar we secure in grants helps lower the costs that affect customer water rates. These rates pay for operating and maintaining SMWD’s $3 billion infrastructure and delivering high-quality, reliable drinking water, recycled water, and wastewater services to more than 200,000 people in south Orange County. Congressman Mike Levin secured $959,752 to support the construction of a PFAS treatment facility in San Juan Capistrano. This funding supports SMWD’s efforts to address emerging contaminants, safeguard public health, and continue delivering high-quality drinking water that meets evolving regulatory standards. He has a strong track record of delivering federal resources for SMWD projects that protect public health and strengthen regional water resilience. Congressman Levin’s continued advocacy at the federal level reflects his commitment to modernizing water infrastructure and advancing long-term water reliability solutions throughout the region. Congresswoman Young Kim secured $750,000 in federal funding to support SMWD’s innovative Oso Barrier Water Treatment Plant project — a forward-thinking initiative designed to capture, treat, and reuse urban runoff as a local drinking water supply. By transforming stormwater into a sustainable resource, the Oso Barrier project will help reduce reliance on imported water supplies. “The Santa Margarita Water District is grateful to Representative Kim for her continued leadership and support of the District as we enhance water reliability for our community,” said Board President Laura Freese. “This new funding assistance will allow the District to capture urban water runoff and use it as a source of local drinking water, offsetting future imported water needs. Her commitment to innovative and resilient water projects, like the Oso Barrier Water Treatment Plant Project, enhances our quality of life and helps sustain the economic viability of our region.” Learn more about Santa Margarita Water District at SMWD.com/News.
