Flagstaff plans new wastewater treatment plant amid aging infrastructure challenges

Flagstaff City Council's recent budget retreat spotlighted the urgent need for a new wastewater treatment plant, as officials grapple with aging infrastructure and rising population demands. During the April 25 meeting, the newly appointed Director of Water Services, Lee, outlined the challenges facing the city's two existing plants, Wildcat Hill and Rio De Flag, both of which are nearing the end of their operational lives.

Lee emphasized that while the current plants have served the community well, they are struggling to keep up with the increasing volume of waste due to effective water conservation efforts. "We are not near the liquid capacity, but we are at the solids capacity," he explained, highlighting the paradox of reduced water usage leading to a greater concentration of waste.

The estimated cost for a new plant capable of handling the city's future needs ranges from $350 million to $420 million, a staggering figure that has prompted discussions on funding strategies. Currently, only $25 million is programmed into the city's 10-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for design work, leaving a significant funding gap for construction.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion about potential funding avenues, including bonds and sales tax options, as they seek creative solutions to finance the project. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the projected timeline for the design phase, which could take up to two years.

As Flagstaff continues to grow, the council's commitment to addressing wastewater treatment needs will be crucial in ensuring the city's infrastructure can support its residents. The discussions at the retreat signal a proactive approach to tackling these challenges head-on, with further deliberations expected in the coming months.