Wastewater
The Environmental Services Division of Public Works (ESD) is comprised of ten sanitary sewer districts. ESD has four permitted wastewater discharge points: Main Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), Combined Sewage Treatment Plant (CSTP) 2, CSTP 5, and CSTP 6.
Main Treatment Facility
The main plant treats 4 to 5 million gallons per day of wastewater during normal operation. Wastewater originates from homes, industry, and commercial districts. Three districts have combined sanitary and stormwater sewer systems. These are known as Combined Sewer Districts.
For more information about the wastewater treatment process, view the brochure After Flushing, Where Does It Go?
Do you want to take a virtual tour of the WWTP?
Join Andrea, the former Water Resources Program Coordinator, on the tour and learn about the WWTP treatment processes! Click HERE to watch.
Combined Sewer Treatment Plants (CSTP)
Combined sewers contain both stormwater runoff and sanitary sewerage. The CSTP treatment facilities are utilized during high run-off events. The dilute wastewater in the CSTP is either sent to the main plant for treatment after the run-off event or can be treated on-site and discharged. The CSTPs have been instrumental in reducing/eliminating sewer back-ups in homes or businesses. The image was taken in 1978 during CSTP 6 basin construction.
Lift Stations
There are numerous lifts stations throughout the city. They aid the flow of the wastewater to the plant. There are three lifts stations that include overflow ponds. When used, the overflow ponds must be pumped and sent to the treatment plant as soon as possible.
Only flush the 3 P's!
Materials that do not immediately break down such as toys, feminine hygiene products, and “flushable” wipes, can easily cause a blockage in sanitary sewer pipes. These clogs cause backups in basements or overflows.