Press Release

Senator Alvarado-Gil Applauds City of Modesto's $3.2 Million Grant for Water Conservation and Infrastructure Projects

State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil is pleased to announce that the City of Modesto has been awarded approximately $3.2 million in funds from the Urban Community Drought Relief Grant Program (UCDRP) through the Department of Water Resources (DWR). This significant grant will support crucial water conservation and infrastructure improvement projects, benefiting the constituents of Modesto and paving the way for long-term solutions in anticipation of dry conditions.

Under this grant, the City of Modesto has received two awards, both focusing on replacing existing grass with drought-tolerant landscapes. First, residential and commercial customers will be able to participate in the City's rebate program, receiving a generous rebate of $2 per square foot for converting their grass areas into drought-tolerant landscapes. The total of $800,000 for this award aims to replace 400,000 square feet of turf and foster water conservation efforts on a larger scale.

With the second award of $2,359,922, the City plans to undertake a project involving removing and replacing 17.79 acres of non-functional turf grass at 21 parks. This initiative is estimated to save approximately 53.37 acre-feet of water annually, significantly contributing to the region's water conservation efforts.

Senator Alvarado-Gil stated, "I commend the City of Modesto for its commitment to water conservation and proactive efforts in preparing for future drought conditions. These grant awards represent a significant step forward in creating resilient and sustainable water systems, benefiting the environment and the community. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact of these projects on the constituents of Modesto."

“Water wealth is a part of Modesto’s heritage and it’s vital we do everything we can to preserve this most precious resource,” said Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen. “That’s why we are leading by example through not only our generous turf replacement rebate and incentive programs but by replacing acres of non-functional grass in our City’s parks.”  

To learn more about Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil please visit: https://sd04.senate.ca.gov/.

Senator Alvarado-Gil represents the 4th Senate District including the Counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne.

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