In a recent government meeting, the public works director of Barnstable shared insights into significant infrastructure projects and environmental challenges facing the region. The director, who has been in the role since being hired by former town manager Tom Lynch, highlighted two major initiatives: the comprehensive wastewater management plan and the ongoing battle against PFAS contamination in the water supply.

The comprehensive wastewater management plan is a monumental 30-year project with an estimated cost of $1.5 billion, marking it as one of the largest undertakings on Cape Cod, second only to bridge projects in scale. This plan aims to address the critical need for improved wastewater management in the area.

Additionally, the director discussed the pressing issue of PFAS, a group of harmful chemicals found in the water supply that have raised health concerns. Following changes in EPA regulations in 2016, the Barnstable water supply was found to exceed safety standards for PFAS. In response, the town took immediate action by shutting down contaminated water sources and implementing temporary activated granular carbon systems to treat PFAS-laden groundwater. This proactive measure has successfully reduced PFAS levels to non-detectable amounts, and the director noted that all wells in the area have since been equipped with treatment systems.

The director emphasized the pervasive nature of PFAS, stating that contamination has been detected in various local environments, including ponds and rivers. This reality marks a significant shift in water management philosophy, moving from a focus on pristine groundwater to the necessity of treating contaminated sources.

With over three decades of experience in the region, the director expressed confidence in their ability to address the challenges facing Cape Cod, underscoring the importance of collaboration and shared expertise in tackling these pressing issues.