The multi-year project to upgrade the Vernon Water Pollution Control Facility on Windsorville Road is complete and an open house and tours for residents are scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 8 from 2 to 6 p.m. All are welcome.
The facility serves Vernon and sections of Ellington, Manchester, South Windsor and Tolland.
The project came in at $65 million, significantly under the nearly $86 million budget that was approved by voters at a 2019 referendum.
“This was a very important project that replaced aging equipment and infrastructure, and will ensure our sewer plant meets state requirements, and improves water quality in the Hockanum and Connecticut rivers, and Long Island Sound,” Mayor Dan Champagne said. “I am grateful for the work of our building committee, staff, engineers and contractors to control costs, reduce the impact on taxpayers and achieve a successful completion of the project.”
The state-required improvements included equipment and systems to sharply reduce phosphorous and nitrogen discharges into the Hockanum River and ultimately Long Island Sound. Curiously, the plant was equipped to remove dyes from the textile mills that once existed in Vernon.
The upgrade will also dramatically increase the energy efficiency of the plant. A large generator was also installed to power the plant during power failures.
“Essentially we have a new plant that will enable us to meet all existing requirements and serve our community for generations to come,” Water Pollution Control Director Robert Grasis said.
Vernon and the communities that benefit from the plant will pay a portion of the project cost. A Clean Water Fund grant paid about 30 percent of the project cost. The net cost to Vernon taxpayers is about $25 million. The project was bonded and will be paid for over time.
The project began in 2015 with a study, planning and design. Construction was completed in February.