Assessing supply and demand risks
Climate impacts, growth projections and system vulnerability evaluations helped predict shifts in long-term supply
Markets
Priorities
San Diego charts a long-term roadmap for reliable, climate-ready water resources
San Diego relies heavily on imported water that is vulnerable to drought, climate change and environmental regulations. With demand expected to rise as the city grows, the San Diego Public Utilities Department (SDPUD) partnered with CDM Smith to strengthen reliability and local resilience.
Comparing diverse water solutions
Dozens of potential water supply options were reviewed to identify strategies that balance cost, reliability and feasibility.
Building stakeholder consensus
A stakeholder advisory committee representing various community groups shaped objectives and ensured broad public alignment.
Gaining community confidence
A 1-mgd demonstration project was built to support community education and strengthen confidence in future programs.
The resulting long-range plan provides a flexible roadmap that SDPUD will update every 5 to 10 years as conditions evolve. It positions the city to expand conservation, boost local groundwater use and adopt purified wastewater for indirect potable reuse. “Planning for climate uncertainty is an important part of remaining a resilient city,” says deputy director Marsi Steirer, underscoring the city’s commitment to reliable, cost-effective and environmentally responsible water service