Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities has identified the need for increased wastewater capacity to serve the Long Creek Basin of western Mecklenburg County. Utilities will need additional capacity in that area by 2012. Currently, wastewater from the western portion of Mecklenburg County is pumped more than 20 miles to the McAlpine Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in Pineville for treatment.

Regional Approach

Preliminary studies indicate that a collaborative, regional approach with the City of Mount Holly is feasible and is an efficient solution. This would result in a shared treatment plant that would serve both communities. Utilities conducted an extensive Environmental Impact Statement that explores eight alternatives for the location and arrangement of the proposed plant. We expect to submit the EIS in spring 2008, after which there will be several opportunities for public comment and discussion.

How wastewater is treated

The analysis describes the direct and indirect environmental effects of the alternatives and how to best reduce those effects. It also includes extensive data on how the proposed plant would affect downstream water quality. This modeling showed a negligible change in future water quality compared with current conditions.

Stakeholder Involvement

Utilities began meeting with a broad range of stakeholders in August 2007 to help provide input on the project. Stakeholders represented adjacent landowners and environmental, regulatory, economic development and downstream interests. The group provided valuable input on plant location alternatives, community-friendly features and sustainable design elements. This initial stakeholder process concluded in March 2008, though additional public feedback will continue throughout the project's development.

Water Quality

Protecting water quality is paramount in this project, and Utilities expects very stringent water quality limits for the proposed facility. This would protect Upper Lake Wylie from excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus. A regional approach also would result in eliminating one or more existing wastewater discharges, which would improve downstream water quality.

IMPORTANT LINKS:

For more information please fill out this Engineering Request Form and add you contact information as well as any comments or questions.  You can also ask about being added to the list of community partners to receive periodic updates on the project.

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