Weston and Sampson completes award-winning upgrade of North Shore Massachusetts water treatment plant

The Attleboro Municipal Building Commission meeting on April 23, 2025, focused on significant developments in water treatment projects, particularly concerning PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) treatment. The discussions highlighted the increasing financial implications of these projects, as many local drinking water plants now exceed the $10 million threshold, necessitating the involvement of an owner's project manager.

One key point raised was the comparison with a previous project in Norton, Massachusetts, which did not require an owner's project manager due to its lower cost. However, the addition of PFAS treatment has driven costs up, making project management essential for compliance and oversight.

The meeting also showcased a successful upgrade project completed in North Shore, Massachusetts. This project involved modernizing a 50-year-old surface water treatment plant, which ultimately saved the city between $15 million and $20 million compared to constructing a new facility. The firm Weston and Samson, responsible for the design and execution, emphasized their in-house capabilities, which include architectural, structural, and mechanical engineering services. This integrated approach is expected to streamline problem-solving during project execution.

Additionally, the commission noted the importance of experience in PFAS treatment, with Weston and Samson reporting over 35 successful PFAS projects in the past decade. Many of these projects were initiated in response to the Massachusetts PFAS regulation established in October 2020.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the evolving landscape of water treatment in Attleboro and surrounding areas, driven by regulatory changes and the need for effective management of increasingly complex projects. The commission's focus on PFAS treatment reflects a broader commitment to ensuring safe drinking water for the community.