Burbank and San Diego County sign long-term water supply deal

The San Diego County Water Authority and the city of Burbank have entered into a long-term agreement to enhance water supply reliability. Under the deal, which runs through 2047, Burbank is permitted to purchase up to 5,000 acre-feet of water annually.

Burbank, which has a population of approximately 104,000, lacks naturally occurring water rights and depends entirely on imported water from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. The new agreement aims to diversify Burbank’s water portfolio to meet growing demand and address regional water scarcity.

The agencies will utilize existing infrastructure to facilitate the transfer, meaning no new pipelines are required. The agreement is projected to generate $15 million in revenue for the San Diego County Water Authority during its first five years, funds which officials state will help offset costs related to previous investments in San Diego County’s water reliability.