The report was commissioned by the Prebys Foundation for the Chamber.
SAN DIEGO (March 11, 2026)- The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce has publicized a new report presenting a comprehensive, binational roadmap to address the ongoing sewage contamination affecting the Tijuana River. The report outlines a five-pillar framework designed to eliminate dry-weather transboundary sewage flows, restore coastal water quality, and establish accountable, sustainable wastewater management in the region.
The report does not simply restate what we already know. It acknowledges binational milestones, ongoing challenges, and outlines what’s next.
The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted a press conference releasing the report. Speakers included: Chris Cate of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, Chris Howard of Sharp HealthCare, Dr. Emily Young of Prebys Foundation, and Courtney Baltiyskyy of YMCA of San Diego County and Tijuana River Coalition.
“For too long, the Tijuana River contamination crisis has been addressed in fragments. What has been missing is a comprehensive, binational roadmap that connects the problem to clear, coordinated action,” said Chris Cate, President and CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. “While important milestones have been reached, this report creates an actionable guide to continue the momentum for the future to protect public health, strengthen our economy, and restore the environmental health of the San Diego – Tijuana region.”
“No community should have to live with the health risks caused by ongoing sewage contamination,” said Chris Howard, Chamber Board Chair and President and CEO of Sharp HealthCare. “Addressing the Tijuana River crisis is critical to safeguarding public health and ensuring the long-term well-being of our region.”
Speakers addressed the urgency of the issue and the importance of sustained collaboration to protect public health, the environment, and the regional economy.
“The sewage crisis in the Tijuana River Valley has threatened the health and well-being of children and families for far too long,” said Dr. Emily Young, Vice President of Programs, Prebys Foundation. “Prebys Foundation is supporting research and local organizations raising awareness and advocating for solutions. Lasting progress will require governments, philanthropy, and community leaders on both sides of the border working together to advance enduring solutions.”
“As a growing community-based coalition convening more than sixty organizations, the Tijuana River Coalition represents residents, youth, workers, families, scientists, doctors, businesses, and recreators throughout San Diego County and Tijuana. With dedication to addressing the severe environmental and public health crisis caused by the transboundary pollution in the Tijuana River Watershed, we recognize the importance of the five-pillar plan,” said Courtney Baltiyskyy, Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy, YMCA of San Diego County & Tijuana River Coalition Facilitator. “With understanding of this research across communities, tangible solutions, and sustainable funding, we can consistently make progress to fix the infrastructure problems, heal communities impacted, and prevent further harm.”
For more information or to set up an interview with the President and CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, Chris Cate, please contact Hayley Marting at hmarting@sdchamber.org or 559−514−1649.
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About the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
The San Diego Regional Chamber is the hub for connections and collaboration among the regional business community, and uses that clout to advocate for public policies and candidates that support economic growth and the creation of jobs for all businesses. As the largest local Chamber on the West Coast, representing more than 2,000 businesses and an estimated 300,000 jobs, the San Diego Regional Chamber is working to champion business and empower leaders. For more information, please visit SDChamber.org or call 619−544−1300.
