Project Overview

The Western Virginia Water Authority recently completed a major project to upgrade the Regional Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) to the benefit of the community and the environment. This overview answers key questions about the project.

Why was this project necessary?
The primary goal of the project was to reduce the possibility of sewer collection system overflows. The plant was originally built in the 1950s and has been renovated over the years, but some of the aging pipes and equipment had to be replaced. The project also improved the treatment process by enhancing safety and reliability.

What was done?
Extensive renovations at the Regional Water Pollution Control Plant included:

New influent pumping facilities, bar screens and grit removal equipment were installed to convey and treat much higher wet weather flows;
Additional primary clarifiers were constructed adjacent to the existing primary clarifiers;
Improvements were made to the effluent filter facility and the existing disinfection facility to enhance safety; and
Miscellaneous improvements were made throughout the plant.

When did the construction begin and when was it completed?
Construction began in September of 2003. Following four years of hard work, the WPCP was rededicated on September 20, 2007.

Where is the plant located?
The plant is located at 1502 Brownlee Avenue.

How much did the project cost?
The renovations and improvements to the WPCP cost approximately $50 million.

Click here for a diagram that shows the areas where major improvements were made.