Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities has identified the need for increased wastewater capacity to serve the Long Creek Basin of western Mecklenburg County. Utilities originally projected a need for additional capacity in that area by 2012, though the current economic downturn may push this further. 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 explored eight alternatives for the location and arrangement of the proposed plant.   

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.

The EIS was submitted to NCDENR in spring 2008 and currently is awaiting speculative limits from the state to complete it. Once complete, the EIS process will include several opportunities for public comment and discussion.

Stakeholder Involvement
Utilities conducted meetings with a broad range of stakeholders from summer 2007 through spring 2008 to 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. 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, combined with using the latest in wastewater technology, 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.

This project is in its very early stages. The proposed plant is not under design, nor does Utilities plan to initiate the selection process for design or construction consultants until the EIS is complete and the permitting is well under way.

IMPORTANT LINKS:
For more information please fill out this Engineering Request Form.  If you would like to be added to our list of those interested in receiving periodic updates on the project, please specify so in your request and include your contact information.