MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – New facilities are continuing to be put in place at a water treatment plant in Marquette, updating its efforts in keeping our great lakes and drinking water safe.
“We live in a state that’s defined by waters, and converse a lot of responsibility on all of us to make sure that’s protected not just for us but for this generation but for future generations,” commented Director of EGLE Phil Roos.
Director of the Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Phil Roos, along with leaders from the city of Marquette toured the Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment facility on Wednesday.
Through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund program, the facility was able to finance a $14 million project constructing a second storage space and second bell filter press that started back in May of 2023. “In the middle of winter it’s critical we have to have it,” commented Director of Municipal Facilities Mark O’Neill.
Both will help the dewatering process of biosolids coming into the plant and lower the stress on the facilities and machinery. This plant treats almost 4 million gallons of our water per day and still uses some of the original solid waste digesting machines treating the water.
EGLE Director commented with newer technology, treating water has become much more efficient and when funding for upgraded ways to do so becomes available, they need to act fast.
“That’ll make a difference for all the citizens of Marquette both in terms of public health clean water and long-term keeping costs low,” continued Roos.
Construction is still underway but officials predict the revenue coming into the plant over the years could start off-setting costs for tax-payers. “There’s a need in the area for it and so we’re gonna get revenue from that, that’s going to help pay for the receiving station and then also the plant over the term of the loan,” continued O’Neill.
Treatment plant officials mentioned because of equipment delivery delays, the construction will be finished most likely in December.
