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Swanzey water and sewer committee outlines preliminary $20 million sewer proposal and financing considerations
Summary
The town's water and sewer committee reported May 28 that Underwood Engineers is likely to be contracted for engineering on a proposed sewer extension to Keene; preliminary capacity estimates are 60,000–65,000 gallons per day and rough cost estimates are about $20 million, with financing options and a town bond to be explored.
The Swanzey Planning Board received an update from the water and sewer committee on May 28 outlining next steps for a proposed sewer extension that would route wastewater to Keene.
Committee members said they expect to contract with Underwood Engineers for the next phase of engineering, focusing on piping and pumping studies to move flow from the West wastewater treatment plant toward Route 10 and connection with Keene's system. The committee cited preliminary flow estimates of roughly 60,000–65,000 gallons per day and said early cost projections are on the order of $20 million; those figures remain subject to refinement through detailed engineering and grant-application work.
Committee participants described possible financing strategies including state revolving funds, community development grants, and a town bond; they emphasized that if a bond is used, debt service would be borne by sewer users (not the entire town tax base). The committee also discussed a plan B—upgrading or building a new local treatment plant—if connection or financing proves infeasible. Committee members noted regulatory complications such as phosphorus limits at the current lagoon-style plant and interactions with the EPA and state regulators that affect timing and design.
The committee indicated more precise costs and timelines should emerge after the pending engineering work and further intermunicipal discussions with Keene's public works staff; the committee expects to pursue grants and refine cost-sharing and governance options before presenting a formal financing plan to voters.
