COMPLIANCE; ENVIRONMENT DRIVE WASTE WATER PLANT OVERHAUL

At almost 100 years old, the city of Freeport holds the dubious honor of having THE oldest waste water
treatment plant in the state of Illinois. Built in the 1930s, Freeport’s waste water facility on Hancock
Avenue has had a few upgrades over its 100-year existence, but struggled mightily over the past decade
to comply with both state and federal treatment regulations.
“As talented as our Water and Sewer Department employees are,” says Freeport Mayor Jodi Miller, “at
some point you must bite the bullet and invest in new technology, new equipment, and a new way of
treating Freeport’s sanitation waste. Becoming compliant with the Environmental Protection Agency
and improving our disposal into the Pecatonica River have become a major priority for us.”
Since 2023, the city has embarked on a $58 million overhaul of its waste water treatment system. Jodi
explains the overhaul will occur in two phases with Phase 1 already underway. The city is replacing its
old headwork system which will improve treatment of waste water coming into the plant, as well as
improve the safety for city workers.
Jodi says the city is also replacing the technology it uses in treating waste.
“For decades the city has used chlorine and other chemicals to treat its waste,” explains Jodi, “not only
is this process not good for the environment, but it’s also expensive. The plant’s new Ultra Violet
treatment process will save the city money and improve our stewardship of our local environment and
waterways.”
“We have future generations in mind as we rebuild our infrastructure,” says Jodi. “We want to be a
leader when it comes to municipal environmental management. It’s a big goal but worth the pursuit.”