IID Board Approves $4.3 Million in FLOW Grants for Local Water Projects

-Editorial 

The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) Board of Directors approved $4.3 million in Funding Local Opportunities for Water (FLOW) grants on October 20, 2026, supporting 13 projects proposed by 9 local agencies within IID’s water service area.

The FLOW grant program was developed by the IID Board of Directors in early 2026 to support local infrastructure projects that have a water and/or agriculture-related nexus. The thirteen projects selected for funding demonstrated a clear public benefit upon completion.

“This investment reflects IID’s commitment to advancing projects in partnership with the communities we serve,” said IID Board Chairwoman Karin Eugenio. “Through FLOW, we are supporting projects that help local agencies improve water infrastructure, enhance public spaces and deliver long-term benefits for residents.”

Grant recipients include six cities, two utility districts, and a single-college district serving all municipalities in Imperial County.  Nine out of the 13 projects are city-sponsored projects.

The approved projects include new construction or improvements to potable water distribution systems, raw water conveyance systems, storm-water facilities, water metering and accounting equipment, and recreational facilities linked to water resources.   These projects reflect the wide range of priorities from the local entities in partnership with IID. Cumulatively, they bring an additional $9.3 million of cost-share investment from entity revenues, other grant sources, and private capital.

IID plans to recognize grant recipients through “FLOW on the Road,” a series of community tours highlighting the funded projects and the benefits they will bring to the local community.