Groundbreaking Ceremony Kicks Off Exciting New Wastewater Treatment Plant in Owens Cross Roads
Today, an exciting milestone was reached in Owens Cross Roads as city, state, and federal officials gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction of a brand new wastewater treatment plant. This state-of-the-art facility will replace the city’s aging and overwhelmed treatment plant, which has been struggling to keep up with the needs of the community. With a generous funding package totaling over $10 million from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, this project promises to deliver much-needed improvements to the area’s wastewater infrastructure.
Addressing Community Needs
With a population of 2,631, Owens Cross Roads is one of the rapidly growing suburbs south of Huntsville. The new plant is not only designed to meet the current demands of residents but also to accommodate future growth and new customers. Mayor Tony Craig expressed optimism during the ceremony, noting that, “For the past decade, the city of Owens Cross Roads has faced significant challenges with our wastewater system.”
Indeed, the existing 40-year-old sewer system has faced ongoing issues with stormwater infiltrating its lines, leading to many headaches for city officials. Currently, around 60 percent of the city’s sewage is redirected into Huntsville’s sewer system, a stopgap measure that has become increasingly unsustainable as both cities continue to grow.
A New Solution
Mayor Craig emphasized that the limitations of the city’s wastewater system have become glaringly clear with the population growth. In 2019, the city made the tough decision to send part of its wastewater to nearby Huntsville for treatment. Unfortunately, that arrangement is likely to come to an end, compelling Owens Cross Roads to seek a permanent solution.
Thanks to funding from the American Rescue Plan Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the new wastewater treatment plant will solidify the future of Owens Cross Roads. ADEM Director Lance LeFleur shared an important perspective, stating, “Sewer and drinking water systems throughout Alabama are having to deal with decades-old infrastructure needs.” The challenges are significant, but the state is better equipped now than ever to tackle them thanks to recent funding.
Local Leaders Excited About the Project
The atmosphere at the groundbreaking was filled with excitement and hope. State representatives, including Rep. Ritchie Whorton and Sen. Wes Kitchens, were present, sharing their support for the project. Rep. Whorton expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The new wastewater treatment plant is a vital investment in Owens Cross Roads’ infrastructure.” He highlighted how the project will lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and future development in the community.
As the new treatment plant will be built right next to the existing facility on Sneed Avenue, construction is set to get underway immediately. This new plant will not only enhance the city’s capability to handle its wastewater but also create a more reliable system that will encourage growth and development for years to come.
Next Steps
Residents of Owens Cross Roads can look forward to seeing significant improvements as the project progresses. By investing in essential infrastructure, the city is ensuring a brighter future with cleaner water and improved sanitation services. For more detailed information about ongoing sewer and drinking water projects funded by ADEM, local citizens can visit the ADEM website for updates.
The groundbreaking ceremony was just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey for Owens Cross Roads, and everyone in the community is looking forward to the positive impacts this new wastewater treatment plant will bring.
