Two new projects approved for the Inland Empire

The Inland Empire’s U.S. Reps. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) and Mark Takano (CA-39) recently announced that they individually secured millions of federal dollars for two different projects. 

Over in Takano’s District, $6 million, which was secured through fiscal year 2022 and 2023 appropriations, have been awarded to the Western Municipal Water District. 

Those funds are to be used to upgrade the region's current sewer infrastructure in Riverside  near March Air Reserve Base to prevent Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) — chemicals linked to cancer, liver damage and reproductive issues — from entering the wastewater system.

“I am proud to help bring these funds to the Inland Empire,” said Takano. “Californians know how precious our water resources are, and I am pleased that these federal dollars will help ensure our water supply remains safe and abundant.

Nearby, in California’s 33 District, Aguilar announced that $2 million in federal community project funding has been awarded to support the building of a new animal shelter in the Bloomington area in San Bernardino County.

The Bloomington Animal Care Center, which broke ground back in 2025, is anticipated to cost around $65 million.

According to the press release, the Animal Care Center will help the most in-need animals in San Bernardino County and support initiatives to decrease the spread of diseases like rabies, manage stray animals and provide other preventive measures to keep animals healthy and the public safe, among other services. 

“Californians are incredibly passionate about the well-being of pets and animals and understand the unique challenges we face in San Bernardino County,” Aguilar said. “That’s why I’m proud to deliver this federal investment to build an animal shelter that will provide not just space, but also essential veterinary and animal control services.”

The new Bloomington Animal Care Center is expected to be completed by spring 2027.