During the recent Westerly Town Council meeting held on November 18, 2024, significant discussions centered around the town's sewer system upgrades and capacity management. The council addressed the ongoing design and construction efforts aimed at enhancing the sewer infrastructure, which is projected to accommodate an additional 1,400 to 1,600 units over the next 20 years.

A key point raised was the current status of 333 residential units that are connected to sewer lines but not yet tied into the system. These properties remain on septic systems, but they have the potential to connect to the sewer in the future. The council noted that, historically, only a handful of these units have opted to tie in, suggesting that the actual increase in capacity usage may be modest.

The meeting highlighted the importance of evaluating each new development proposal on a case-by-case basis. The town has contracted Jacobs Engineering to assess whether the existing sewer plant can handle additional capacity from proposed projects. This process will ensure that any new developments do not exceed the plant's capabilities, maintaining the integrity of the sewer system.

Additionally, the council discussed the recent installation of 66,000 pounds of media into the filtration system, which is expected to enhance the breakdown of wastewater and improve overall efficiency. This upgrade is part of a broader strategy to manage increased flows, particularly during winter months when rain can lead to higher infiltration rates into the sewer system.

The council also addressed concerns regarding nitrate levels in the wastewater, confirming that new limits have been established to accommodate seasonal variations in flow. This proactive approach aims to ensure compliance with environmental standards while planning for future growth.

In conclusion, the discussions at the meeting underscored the town's commitment to managing its sewer capacity effectively as it prepares for potential growth. With most of the sewer district already built out, the council remains focused on ensuring that any new developments are sustainable and within the operational limits of the existing infrastructure. The next steps will involve continued monitoring and assessment of the sewer system's capacity as new projects are proposed.