By 1812Blockhouse
Richland County is moving forward with a transformative wastewater infrastructure project, aimed at supporting future growth and development along a crucial corridor in the region. With an estimated budget of $4.25 million, this project represents one of the most significant investments in local infrastructure in recent years. The project is designed not just to meet the current needs but to anticipate and accommodate future demands, ensuring that the county remains well-equipped to support its growing communities, particularly near the Ohio 97/I-71 interchange.
A Project Years in the Making
The Richland County Commissioners have been dedicated to this initiative for over a year and a half. The project has been meticulously planned, with a comprehensive 64-page plan set and an extensive 555-page contract package that will soon be available to prospective contractors. This level of detail reflects the complexity and scale of the project, which has been a collaborative effort involving key partners like the Village of Belleville and the local YMCA.
Amanda Miller, the county’s Wastewater Director, emphasized the importance of this project during the recent Commissioners’ meeting. “This project is foundational to the development and growth we expect in this corridor,” Miller stated. She shared that it is not just about replacing old infrastructure; it’s about setting the stage for future growth and ensuring the capacity to handle that growth.
What’s Being Done
The project focuses on upgrading the county’s wastewater system to meet modern standards and to support anticipated future needs. Key elements of the project include:
- Replacing 3,400 feet of ductile iron force main: This will significantly enhance the durability and reliability of the county’s wastewater system.
- Lining 18,000 feet of petrified clay pipe: By using cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) technology, the project will seal any cracks or fractures, preventing potential infiltration and maintaining the integrity of the system.
- Upgrading lift stations: The existing lift station at Belleville Johnsville Road will be brought above ground, out of flood-prone areas, and a new lift station will be installed on Kiser Road, specifically designed to support the planned soccer complex and the YMCA.
These improvements are not just for today—they are being made with the future in mind. The infrastructure is designed to handle an increase from the current capacity of 55,000 gallons per day to 85,000 gallons, with the potential to scale up to nearly 300,000 gallons per day as the area continues to develop.
“This project is scalable,” Miller explained. “As demand increases down the road, which it will, this will make it possible to increase capacity on demand. But it will require upgrades from time to time as more users come online.”
A Vision for the Future: Planning for Growth
The area surrounding the project is expected to see significant growth in the coming years, with plans for both residential and commercial developments. One such development, which has been discussed in recent years, involves a potential housing project that could add over 400 units on 80 acres of land. While this particular development has yet to move forward, the wastewater project is being designed to accommodate such large-scale expansions.
“The Commissioners continue to be true believers in industry and business in Richland County,” said one of the Commissioners. “This project is foundational to the development and growth that we expect in this corridor.”
Timeline and Budget
With the project’s estimated cost hovering around $4.25 million, the Commissioners are committed to ensuring it stays on budget and on schedule. Bids for the project are set to open on September 17, 2024, and the deadline for obligating the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds is December 31, 2024. This means that the county needs to be under contract with a contractor by the end of the year—a timeline the Commissioners are confident they will meet.
“Our engineer has designed this project so that substantial completion is in April of 2026,” stated Andrew Keller, County Administrator. “That gives us ample time, with some built-in contingencies, to ensure everything is completed by the expenditure deadline of December 31, 2026.”
This meticulous planning and forward-thinking approach demonstrate the county’s commitment to not only meeting today’s needs but also preparing for the future. The project is expected to be well-received by contractors, despite the current busyness in the construction industry, thanks to its thoughtful design and the critical role it will play in the county’s infrastructure.
A Legacy for Future Generations
The impact of this wastewater project will be felt for generations. By investing in this infrastructure now, Richland County is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and development, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and thriving community. The project also reflects a commitment to public safety, with key infrastructure being moved out of flood zones and built to withstand future challenges.
As the project moves forward, residents and businesses in the area can look forward to improved services and the potential for new opportunities as the region continues to grow and evolve.
Image by Manfred Antranias Zimmer from Pixabay
