Geneva’s Wastewater Treatment Plant facility update and South Street bridge replacement have been selected as “Projects of the Year” by the American Public Works Association Fox Valley Branch (APWA).
The Wastewater Treatment Plant won in the Environment category for projects between $5 million and $25 million. The South Street bridge replacement took top honors in the Disaster or Emergency Repairs less than $5 million category. The APWA brand awards were judged on safety performance, environmental impact, project management, community relations, accomplishments under adverse conditions, and quality control/construction innovations brought to the projects.
This is the first time Geneva has been recognized for two projects in the same year.
Construction for a $12.5 million Geneva Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade – one of the biggest water-related projects in the City’s history – got underway in 2018 to help bring the City in compliance with new state environmental regulations.
While not visible to the public, the Wastewater Treatment Plant project will have a significant long-term impact on the community. The City took a holistic approach on how to improve the facility from enhancing technology from the 1980s to the present-day and by reducing overall power consumption by 25%.
“We have modernized the Wastewater Treatment Plant for the 21st century that will serve the community well for generations to come,” Public Works Director Rich Babica said. “By repurposing the building’s existing footprint and not adding any new chemical processes, the City continues to do its part to protect the environment. I am very proud of the Public Works Water Division staff’s dedication to make this project a success.”
The South Street bridge replacement unexpectedly materialized this fall after City staff discovered the crossing was damaged by a sinkhole. The roadway was closed immediately for safety reasons. Following the securement of project funding and engineering, demolition and construction took a month to complete before the bridge was reopened in November.
Geneva’s Public Works team will receive the awards Tuesday, Jan. 14 at the APWA Fox Valley Branch’s meeting in Aurora. The Branch also will be submitting Geneva’s projects for award consideration at the APWA Chicago Chapter level in 2020.
The City has previously been awarded the APWA Fox Valley Branch’s “Projects of the Year” for the Third Street Commuter Parking Deck expansion (2016), construction of the Water Treatment Facility (2009), Third Street improvements (2002) and State Street improvements (1995).
The APWA is an international educational and professional association of public agencies, private sector companies and individuals dedicated to providing quality public works goods and services. The Chicago Chapter is comprised of 1,500 members in five branches throughout the region.
Residents interested in learning more about the Wastewater Treatment Plant can schedule a facility tour by calling the City’s Public Works Department Water Division at 630-232-1551.