The City of Pittsburg and the Delta Diablo Sanitation District, in Miller’s congressional district, have been leading the local effort, investing time, energy, and local funds in developing water recycling projects to help meet regional water needs. For example, the Pittsburg Recycled Water Project will construct several miles of piping and other infrastructure so that recycled water – rather than fresh water from the Delta – can be applied to city parks, golf courses, medians, and other green spaces.

"Requesting a federal partnership for the Bay Area's recycled water projects based on a regional partnership approach is working," said Gary Darling, General Manager of the Delta Diablo Sanitation District. “Rather than agencies competing amongst themselves and requesting individual project requests through their federally elected members, the Bay Area came together as a region. This sent a strong signal and is getting the support of our Bay Area federal representatives.”

“Water recycling projects like the one in Antioch are a critical part of a consolidated effort by our Bay Area communities to conserve our resources,” said Tauscher (D-Alamo). This legislation means that our communities will now have the much needed federal investment that will expand their efforts and lead to a reduced reliance on the natural resources provided by the bay. I’m proud to be a part of this effort and I will continue to work with my colleagues to promote sensible solutions that protect the environment.”

“With climate change threatening the water resources which are already strained in California, water recycling programs are an important means of conservation,” said Eshoo (D-Palo Alto). “The Mountain View Moffett Area Recycled Water Distribution Project and the Redwood City Recycled Water Project in the 14th Congressional District, will conserve between 5,000 and 9000 acre-feet of potable water per year. This legislation will help alleviate some of the pressure on the precious water resources in our region.”

“The use of recycled water, especially for parks, medians and greenbelts, is a necessary and innovative tool for combating a global water shortage,” said Rep. Jackie Speier (D-South San Francisco/San Mateo). Speier was elected to represent the district of Rep. Tom Lantos who died earlier this year. “Among the many good projects helped by this bill, the City of Pacifica will be able to construct a pumping station, holding tank and three miles of distribution piping. I am grateful for Chairman Miller’s leadership and look forward to working with him on this and other issues.”

“California’s water problems will not be solved by praying for rain and continuing to pump water from the Sacramento Delta,” said Stark (D-Fremont). “Our state needs creative long- term solutions that will allow us to meet our water needs, while preserving the environment. The Bay Area Regional Water Recycling Act, when coupled with conservation measures, is a step in the right direction.”

“I’m delighted to see that Santa Clara County water projects will receive much needed federal assistance in this bill,” noted Lofgren (D-San Jose). “These federal funds will be used to design and construct much needed water recycling and distribution systems in the valley. These two programs will help keep our environment clean while at the same time addressing our water needs. I’d like to thank Congressman George Miller for his efforts to ensure that the Bay Area’s water infrastructure needs are met.”

“San Jose and Santa Clara County’s past experience using recycled water is a great example of the benefits our region will derive from the Bay Area Regional Water Recycling Act. San Jose has shown that a reliable supply of high quality, recycled water is good for urban water use, and that it helps the environment and to protect endangered species,” said Honda (D-San Jose). “With the passage of an important bill such as the Water Recycling Act we will help expand the role water recycling plays in meeting our state’s water supply needs, which are likely to become more acute if global warming is allowed to continue. I commend and thank Rep. Miller for taking his leadership on such an important issue for our country.”

“Here in Northern California, we know how vital it is to ensure a reliable supply of water for our communities and our economy, said McNerney (D-Pleasanton). With local agencies contemplating a rationing this summer, the need to do more water recycling is clear. I applaud Chairman Miller for spearheading this important legislation and I look forward to continuing to work with him to ensure clean, consistent water supplies for our neighborhoods.”