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Aging pipes at Doheny State Beach will be replaced thanks to the State Water Resources Control Board approving the use of bond money from a grant.

The State Water Resources Control Board approved $10 million in bond money from the Clean Beaches Initiative Grant Program, which will make repairs in Doheny State Beach, El Capitan State Beach and Carpinteria State Beach.

“We believe the sewer pipes are approximately 50 years old,” said Patricia Leary, State Water Resources Control Board senior water resources control engineer. “They’re made out of clay and cast iron pipe. They’re approaching the end of their useful life.”

Leary added that the 50 years is an acceptable life expectancy for sewer pipes. She added that they are not certain if the pipes are leaking at this time.

Leary said the process will not begin until a grant agreement allowing the work to begin is completed, and then the project will take a few years to be finished.

City officials said they support State Parks’ efforts to ensure the lines are in good conditions.

“Well-maintained sewer lines help lessen the possibility of sewage spills and the possible attendant beach water quality problems,” said City Manager Doug Chotkevys.

Chotkevys said South Coast Water District maintains over 90 percent of the sewer lines in the city, and they are “very watchful and constantly inspecting their sewer lines for integrity.”