Proposition 4 – Water Recycling

The Proposition 4 Water Recycling Grant is administered by the California State Water Resources Control Board, an agency responsible for protecting and enhancing water quality across the state. This funding opportunity is part of a broader statewide effort to address long-term water supply challenges, particularly in the context of drought resilience and sustainable water management. The program draws from Proposition 4 bond funding, which allocates resources to improve water infrastructure and promote environmental sustainability. Through this initiative, the State Water Board provides both technical and financial assistance to eligible entities undertaking water recycling projects. The primary purpose of this grant is to support the construction of projects that enable the beneficial reuse of treated municipal wastewater. These projects are intended to augment California fresh water supplies by reducing reliance on traditional sources. Eligible project types include recycled water treatment facilities, storage and distribution systems, groundwater recharge systems, indirect potable reuse systems, surface water augmentation, and large scale recycled water projects. The program emphasizes infrastructure that delivers measurable increases in recycled water use, thereby supporting statewide water supply reliability goals. Funding under this program is specifically targeted toward construction-related activities. Standard construction grants cover construction costs only, while large scale recycled water projects may also include planning and design in addition to construction. However, operation and maintenance costs are explicitly ineligible. The funding is structured as a reimbursement model, with grant amounts calculated as 35 percent of eligible construction costs, up to a maximum of 15 million dollars per project. A matching requirement of 50 percent applies, meaning applicants must secure additional funding to cover the remaining project costs. Eligibility for this grant is broad and inclusive of multiple entity types operating within California. Eligible applicants include local public agencies, nonprofit organizations with 501c3 status, public utilities, federally and non federally recognized Native American tribes listed with the Native American Heritage Commission, and mutual water companies. All community types are eligible, including small and large communities as well as non disadvantaged, disadvantaged, and severely disadvantaged populations. This inclusive eligibility framework ensures that a wide range of communities can access funding to improve water sustainability. The application process requires applicants to review detailed program guidelines and submit an online application through the designated state portal. While no letter of intent is required, applicants are encouraged to carefully follow all submission instructions outlined in the Water Recycling Funding Program guidelines. Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, project readiness, and alignment with program objectives. Evaluation criteria are not explicitly detailed in the summary, but are expected to include technical feasibility, environmental benefits, and contribution to water supply augmentation. Key dates for the program include an application deadline of June 30, 2030, with award announcements expected on the same date. The period of performance extends through June 30, 2033, allowing multiple years for project completion. The program appears to be part of a broader multi year funding cycle rather than a recurring annual grant, although additional funding rounds may occur depending on future appropriations. For questions, applicants may contact program staff via phone or email, providing direct access to support during the application process. Overall, this grant represents a significant investment in California water infrastructure, with total available funding estimated at 150 million dollars. By supporting large scale water recycling projects, the program aims to strengthen water resilience, reduce environmental impacts, and ensure sustainable water supplies for future generations. The structured funding approach, combined with broad eligibility and clearly defined project categories, makes this opportunity a critical resource for entities seeking to implement advanced water reuse solutions.

Read full Water Recycling Funding Program guidelines carefully to ensure compliance with eligibility and cost requirements