The Water Renewal Project is BPUB's Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) initiative, designed to strengthen the region's water future by creating a reliable local water resource that lessens dependence upon the Rio Grande.
Water is too valuable to use it only once. That's why the Water Renewal Project will recover up to 8.0 million gallons per day (MGD) of highly treated water from the Robindale Plant and renew it through multiple stages of treatment, including reverse osmosis, before it enters the potable water system.
Instead of being discharged to San Martin Lake, the water will undergo advanced treatment, pass through the Brownsville resacas as an environmental buffer, and receive comprehensive drinking water treatment to ensure it meets rigorous state and federal drinking water standards.
With the Water Renewal Project, every drop has a future, helping diversify Brownsville's water portfolio by creating a dependable local source that supports long-term water security and resilience.
The project aligns with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulatory framework.
Project Details (under development – see status below)
Water Renewal Capacity: Up to 8.0 MGD.
Pipeline: A 36-inch pipeline will connect the Robindale Plant to Resaca de la Guerra.
System Integration: Water will be conveyed to the Water Treatment Plant No. 2 raw water intake for final drinking water treatment.
Planning-level cost estimate: Approximately $64.7 million, subject to refinement as design, procurement, funding, and market conditions evolve.
Grant Funding: $12.7 million awarded by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) on February 19, 2026. Source of funding: Texas General Revenue Fund from the 89th Regular Legislative Session.
Status: Project is undergoing final design review. BPUB approved the pilot project on August 19, 2026.
Schedule: Target completion in 2030, subject to funding availability and construction schedules.
Project Benefits
A Stronger Water Supply
Adds up to 8.0 MGD to Brownsville's potable water supply and offsets approximately 10.1% of current Rio Grande withdrawals.
Drought Resilience
By creating a reliable local water resource, the project helps Brownsville diversify its water supply and prepare for future drought conditions.
Environmental Stewardship
Reduces nutrient-rich discharge to downstream waterways while incorporating the resacas into a water management strategy that supports long-term environmental stewardship.
Built for Growth
As Brownsville continues to grow, infrastructure must grow with it. The Water Renewal Project is an investment in the community's future water reliability.