Improvements to the country’s aging wastewater infrastructure may seem like no brainers, with some estimates putting the need for investment at over $250 billion in the next few years. But recent approval for an overhaul in California came only after a years-long battle to convince lawmakers it was necessary.

“Factions of Morro Bay residents have lobbied on both sides of an effort to build a new sewer for years, and now — finally — the last approval has been granted,” The Tribune reported. “The Coastal Commission approved a proposed new wastewater treatment and water reclamation facility … after a decade of planning.”

Now that it is moving forward, however, it may serve as a lesson for other coastal communities across the country. Critically, the site chosen for the new facility is located more than three miles inland, giving it more protection from sea-level rise and natural disasters that can cause flooding.

“This project will serve as [a] model for future coastal communities in light of rising sea-level issues,” Morro Bay Mayor John Headding said, per The Tribune. “We think the result will be beneficial for generations to come.”