Danville officials outline major wastewater and water infrastructure upgrades for 2023

In the heart of Danville, city officials gathered under the warm glow of the city hall lights to discuss a series of critical infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the community's wastewater and water systems. The meeting, held on April 14, 2025, was marked by a detailed presentation on various initiatives, including the much-anticipated Spears Creek Pump Station improvements and the Clarks Run Phase 2 sewer project.

City representatives highlighted the ongoing efforts to ramp up the Spears Creek Pump Station, a project designed to bolster the efficiency of the surrounding infrastructure. Alongside this, plans for the Spears Creek Force Main were unveiled, promising to further enhance the area's wastewater management capabilities. Rich Smith from HDR provided insights into the Clarks Run project, emphasizing its environmental implications and the necessity for a public meeting scheduled for April 24 to engage the community.

The commission also reviewed the status of the wastewater treatment plant, noting the completion of Phase 1 and the upcoming Phase 2, which hinges on securing necessary funding. The total investment for these projects is substantial, with the Spears Creek improvements alone estimated at $2.5 million. Additionally, the city is set to invest $2.8 million in sewer upgrades for Junction City and Parable, which will include replacing pump stations and enhancing regulatory compliance.

As the meeting progressed, the officials shared updates on various waterline projects, including the recently completed Phase 3 waterline connecting to Springfield. The city is also pursuing a cleaner water grant to support the installation of a new water main, further demonstrating its commitment to improving water quality and capacity.

In a notable discussion, the city addressed the ongoing challenges posed by PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) regulations. Officials reassured residents that Danville's water treatment facilities are well-equipped to handle these emerging concerns, boasting a PFOS output of zero, which is a significant achievement compared to other providers in the state.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism as city leaders outlined their proactive approach to securing funding for lead and copper service line replacements, alongside ongoing efforts to maintain compliance with environmental regulations. As Danville continues to invest in its infrastructure, residents can look forward to improved services and a commitment to environmental stewardship.