THE LEVIN LETTER: Delivering Federal Funds to Build Stronger Communities
As the old saying goes, “All politics is local.”
While heated debates and partisan battles often dominate headlines, some of Congress’ most impactful work happens quietly behind the scenes when members secure federal funding for local projects that strengthen their communities.
These investments may not always make the front page, but they are the backbone of my work.
The community projects supported by federal funds ensure that we have access to critical resources like quality health care, safe roads, clean water, green spaces, and much more. They help us stay healthy, protect our neighborhoods, and secure a brighter future for our children.
From upgrading infrastructure to improving education, federal dollars directly impact our daily lives, and I’m proud to have fought for and secured $931 million in funding for our district across numerous projects.
In Laguna Niguel, I secured over $10 million for the Moulton Niguel Water District. This funding will replace nearly two miles of sewer mains in Laguna Niguel Regional Park that will improve wastewater management and protect our local environment. I also delivered $500,000 to enhance the Crown Valley Parkway Mobility Project, improving ADA accessibility and pedestrian pathways, making it easier and safer for everyone to get around.
In Dana Point, I secured over $29 million for the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project, ensuring that our community has access to a reliable, drought-resistant water supply. This project reduces our dependence on imported water in an environmentally friendly fashion and provides an emergency supply during natural disasters—critical in the era of climate change. Similarly, the Creekside Well Groundwater Recovery Project received $1.25 million to enhance local groundwater access, adding 465 acre-feet per year to the water supply.
I’m also proud of the work we’ve done in San Juan Capistrano, where $4 million in federal funding will improve State Route 74, adding new lanes for cars, bikes, and pedestrians. This will not only make commuting safer but also help reduce traffic congestion. We’re also addressing health care needs with $1.48 million for a local health center to expand access to high-quality, culturally competent care for underserved communities.
San Clemente, too, has seen major investments. I secured $9.3 million for the San Clemente sand replenishment project to safeguard our beautiful coastline and protect against erosion. Another $959,000 is allocated for the Poche Beach Water Reclamation Project, improving beach water quality and benefiting both residents and visitors.
These are just a few examples of the many projects I secured funding for that are improving the quality-of-life for all residents in our district. All are aimed at making our district a better place to live, and each one is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.
But what makes these accomplishments even more meaningful is that the funding was secured on a bipartisan basis during a divided session of Congress. I’m proud of my record of working across the aisle to deliver results for our district. In fact, the Center for Effective Lawmaking ranked me in the top 5% of the most effective Representatives. I’ve worked hard to cut through the partisan gridlock and focus on real solutions for our community, passing 30 bipartisan laws to address the needs of our district and the nation.
At a time when partisanship often takes center stage, it’s more important than ever to have leaders in Washington who can work across the aisle to deliver results. I am always looking for opportunities to collaborate with my colleagues, no matter their party affiliation, to get things done for our district. This spirit of bipartisanship is key to addressing the challenges we face, from infrastructure and water supply to health care and environmental protection.
While I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, our work is far from over. I will continue to fight for more federal funding to meet the needs of our district. Together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable future for the communities of South Orange County.
U.S.Representative Mike Levin represents the 49th Congressional District, which includes the South Orange County cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. He was reelected in 2020 and 2022 and resides in San Juan Capistrano with his wife and two children.
By: Rep. Mike Levin
Source: San Clemente Times