Monticello Water Resource Recovery Facility Improvements

What was the Challenge?

The Village of Monticello’s sewer system had not undergone major updates since its original construction over 50 years ago. The building still contained its original clay tile sewer lines as well as its original brick man covers, which had begun to leak severely. According to village personnel, an estimated 50-60% of the system was leaking. Issues with the building led to State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit violations for effluent ammonia, total suspended solids, and five-day biochemical oxygen demand limits.  Additionally, undesirable discharges from the plant were seeping into Tannery Brook.

How did Barton & Loguidice provide a solution?

Rather than constructing new buildings, all of the existing buildings remained for the project with retrofits, such as new roofing. Within the buildings, many modifications were made to update the village’s sewer system. The system now uses a sequencing batch reactor with a fine bubble aeration system, which is able to meet stricter regulations for removal of BOD, TSS, and nutrients from nitrates and phosphates.  In addition, variable frequency drives were added to the plant to keep pumping costs to a minimum by ensuring that they only operate when demanded.  A new belt press was installed, which presses sludge to 20% solids and reduces the cost and energy to haul off the water component of the waste. Also, a fine screen was added to remove rags and wipes to ensure that no materials will get caught in the pumps.

Why was the project a success?

The improvements at the plant replaced aspects of the system that were deteriorating, which in turn improved operations and has allowed the plant to operate with highly efficient removal rates. Ineffective sludge handling has been corrected, significantly improving dewatering of sludge and reducing offsite hauling. New processes have also decreased overall electrical usage and the cost of operations and maintenance.