A long-awaited project to improve and expand the Township treatment plant’s solids-handling capacity will soon take the next step forward.
At the April 3 meeting, the Board will consider approving contracts for the Brush Creek Water Pollution Control Facility’s solids handling project. The project will upgrade the nutrient removal treatment process and improve efficiency. It’s the next step in a series of upgrades to the facility over the last seven years.
Contracts were sought for engineering design, general construction, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contractors. Bids received were more than 18% higher than anticipated. However, the Board of Supervisors will consider the lowest bidders due to the age of the plant and the need for greater, more efficient capacity.
The new project cost is roughly $42 million. The Township was aggressive in seeking alternative funding for the project even prior to receiving high bids. That includes $5 million from a federal EPA grant and another $1.75 million from the H20 PA program. Marshall Township, which the facility services, will also contribute a significant portion via an inter-municipal agreement, with the remaining costs covered by a low-interest loan from PENNVEST.