![geometric pattern [Converted]-01.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3de50a_8b327666606f4b9fbe695f6cb08b64e6~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_872,h_502,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/3de50a_8b327666606f4b9fbe695f6cb08b64e6~mv2.png)
FAQs
View responses to frequently asked questions related to Central Coast Blue. Reponses are routinely updated based on community interests and available information.
For questions not addressed below, contact us at CCB@pismobeach.org
Download a printable version of Central Coast Blue FAQs below:
What is Central Coast Blue?
Pismo Beach relies on three vulnerable water sources— Lopez Lake, the Santa Maria Groundwater Basin, and imported water from the State Water Project. Prolonged drought, aging infrastructure, evolving regulatory requirements, ongoing litigation, and changing environmental conditions continue to reduce water reliability and increased costs throughout South County. Central Coast Blue will create a new local water supply to meet the needs of the City of Pismo Beach while helping to build a foundation for regional water resilience.
How does Central Coast Blue work?
The project will capture water treated at the Pismo Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant, then purify it to exceed all federal, state, and local regulations using advanced technology before pumping it back into the ground for storage and later use. The process includes: COLLECTION: Treated water is redirected to an Advanced Water Purification Facility instead of being discharged to the ocean. ADVANCED TREATMENT: Water is further purified using ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, and UV advanced oxidation. GROUNDWATER RECHARGE: Clean water is injected back into the basin for natural filtration. REUSE: Water is later pumped from groundwater wells where it can be used for drinking water. This process will help replenish the Santa Maria Groundwater Basin, reduce seawater intrusion, and strengthen long-term water reliability.
Who is paying for the project?
Central Coast Blue will be funded by a combination of grants, low-interest loans, Pismo Beach water and sewer rates, and new service development fees within the City of Pismo Beach.
What are the benefits of Central Coast Blue to neighboring communities?
In addition to a new water supply for Pismo Beach residents, the new injection well will help protect the groundwater basin from seawater intrusion for surrounding communities. The neighborhood adjacent to the facility will benefit from a new sidewalk, the removal of invasive trees on Calvin Court, and a new fire access road connecting Barca Street and Huber Street.
Why is the project located in Grover Beach?
Groundwater basins extend beyond city limits, so water must be managed where it exists. This area already has wells and infrastructure that serve Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, and Oceano. It’s also the most vulnerable to seawater intrusion—making it an ideal location.
Has the City considered a desalination project instead?
Yes. A comprehensive alternatives analysis was conducted to consider desalination and other options. A desalination project uses similar technology but requires significantly more energy since ocean water contains about 35x more salt. Desalination facilities also have a range of potential environmental impacts and can be difficult to permit.
Will you be removing the eucalyptus trees along Calvin Court?
Yes. The eucalyptus trees will need to be removed to accommodate the pipelines and comply with weed abatement requirements. Eucalyptus trees are considered invasive in California, consume massive amounts of groundwater, and are highly flammable. In addition, they can unexpectedly shed heavy branches or topple over from shallow root systems.
How will the street near the facility be impacted?
Any streets affected by construction will be restored to City of Grover Beach standards by the City of Pismo Beach. No streets that have been restored as part of Grover Beach’s Measure K-14 Street Rehabilitation & Repair Program will be impacted by the project.