SEPTEMBER 23, 2010 

Johnson County Wastewater project recognized by Vice President Biden

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa P. Jackson announced this week that a project of Johnson County Wastewater’s is among eight EPA projects that are highlighted in a new report released by Vice President Joe Biden, “100 Recovery Act Projects that are Changing America.” 

The report spotlights some of the most innovative and effective Recovery Act projects across the country that are not only putting people back to work now, but helping transform the economy for years to come. The Green Components Drive Plant Expansion to Sustainable Solution: DLSMB Solids Improvement Project is included on that list at: 
www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/100-Recovery-Act-Projects-Changing-America-Report.pdf

The Douglas L. Smith Middle Basin (DLSMB) wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) was recently expanded from 12 million gallons per day (MGD) to 14.5 MGD and upgraded to meet environmental compliance goals.

The DLSMB Solids Improvement Project provides JCW with the necessary “tools” to effectively treat and beneficially reuse the bio solids from two advanced bio nutrient removal WWTPs. The sustainability components of the project benefit the environment by meeting all regulatory requirements and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 9,700 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents per year. The benefits to Johnson County’s ratepayers include an aesthetically sensitive infrastructure improvement that was the first “green” wastewater project in the state awarded American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding with nearly 50 percent of the $17.8 million loan eligible for principal forgiveness while creating and saving more than 270 construction jobs. As current figures have become available, the number of current jobs created and retained is actually 56.