Nashville unveils sustainable water treatment facility upgrades with activated carbon technology

The Metro Council Operating Budget Hearings on May 13, 2025, focused on significant upgrades to Nashville's water services, particularly the Omohundro Water Treatment Plant. The discussions highlighted plans for a comprehensive renovation of the facility, which has been in operation since 1888 and has not seen major upgrades in decades.

Key proposals include replacing outdated pumps and constructing a new treatment facility that will enhance capacity and efficiency. The new design will incorporate granular activated carbon contact chambers, which are expected to improve water quality by effectively removing contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). This innovative approach follows extensive testing conducted through a pilot plant that evaluated various treatment processes over 18 months.

In addition to technological advancements, the project aims to be environmentally sustainable. Plans include utilizing solar energy to power the facility and repurposing harvested wood from tree removals for construction. The project is designed to minimize waste, with 98% of materials expected to remain on-site.

Council members expressed appreciation for the attention to both historical preservation and modern sustainability in the facility's redesign. The new plant is intended to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, maintaining the aesthetic of the area while providing state-of-the-art water treatment capabilities.

Overall, the discussions underscored Nashville's commitment to enhancing its water services infrastructure, ensuring the city can meet future demands while prioritizing environmental responsibility and public health. The next steps will involve finalizing the budget and moving forward with the construction timeline.