FREMONT, OH (Toledo News Now) - The city of Fremont is upgrading its Water Pollution Control Center. This will be the largest project in the city's history. The goal is to reduce the amount of raw sewage and storm water that flows into the Sandusky River.
The current facility was built in 1964 and is starting to show its age. Railings are rusted out and walkways over sludge are welded so someone does not fall through.
If there is a big water event the current facility cannot take all of the water. The overflow of the combined raw sewage and storm water then flows into the Sandusky River.
On average, the city of Fremont kicks one billion gallons of combined sewage overflow into the river every year. With the new upgrade, the city will double its capacity in rain events to meet the Clean Water Act.
"With the Sandusky River being a scenic river and a tributary to Lake Erie, with the recreational opportunity it's significant improvement to water quality for the area," said Jeff Lamson, Superintendent of the Water Pollution Control Center.
The city of Fremont is currently working on designs for the project that includes the latest technology and energy efficiencies.
The estimated cost is $57 million. The money will come from the city's sewer funds. City leaders are currently examining the rates but say current rate will pay for the first phase of this upgrade project.
The city plans on using as many local workers as possible. Work is set to being this spring with the first phase complete by 2015.
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