A $32 million project to increase sewage capacity at the Water Pollution Control Plant will reach another milestone as crews prepare to start the concrete work on the new primary settling tanks. Today, City leaders presented an update on the project.

The expansion of the primary settling tanks is the next step that will allow the plant to eventually treat 85 million gallons of sewage per day. Sixteen smaller settling tanks are being replaced by four larger tanks, which assist in the sewage treatment process.

“Our commitment to upgrading our facilities makes our city more competitive in attracting jobs and businesses,” said Greg Meszaros, Director of Public Works and City Utilities. “We are making innovative investments that improve water quality, enhance our quality of life and provide excellent services to residents and businesses.”

A loan from the State'€™s Revolving Fund is assisting with the financing of the project. Barton Malow is the primary contractor for the work. Local contractors include Hagerman Construction, Shambaugh & Son and Kreager Brothers. The project started in late 2005 and is expected to be complete in September 2009.

In May 2005, crews finished work on the $19 million Headworks project, which was the first of several major projects to increase sewage treatment capacity from 60 million gallons per day to 85 million gallons per day. The Headworks project was the first major upgrade to the plant'€™s mechanical and electrical systems in over 30 years.