Baldwinsville-Seneca Knolls WWTP Asset Renewal Project Phase I and II

What Was the Challenge?

In continuous operation since 1982, the Baldwinsville-Seneca Knolls Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) had an aging infrastructure that risked compromising its operational efficiency and environmental compliance. Serving approximately 36,000 residents in the Towns of Lysander, Van Buren, and Geddes, it is also evolving to meet the needs of a growing industrial user base. One problem in particular was odor caused by the aged solids digestion processes that required immediate improvements at the facility. It also required comprehensive upgrades to its processes and infrastructure to meet modern standards and ensure long-term viability to serve a growing sewer service area in Onondaga County.

How Did Barton & Loguidice Provide a Solution?

B&L is leading a multi-phase asset renewal and modernization of the Baldwinsville-Seneca Knolls WWTP, upgrading critical infrastructure and implementing advanced technology to improve efficiency and compliance.  Construction of the Phase 1 Asset Renewal Project focused on critical upgrades to the solids digestion processes.

Key Phase 1 improvements included:

• Enhanced influent screening, and grit removal systems.
• Decommissioning of the 40-year-old high-purity oxygen digestion system.
• Transition to an advanced autothermal thermophilic aerobic digestion (ATAD) process with new jet mixing, aeration, instrumentation, and control systems.
• Installation of plant-wide odor control system, including process tank odor covers, stainless steel ductwork, and a centralized scrubber and biofilter.
• SCADA, HVAC, and electrical upgrades to boost operational and energy efficiency.
• Structural repairs and architectural updates to improve durability and usability.

This comprehensive approach addressed immediate needs while ensuring long-term reliability and resilience for the facility.  The upgraded solids digestion process has addressed the odor issues at the WWTP.

Why Was This Project a Success?

B&L’s expertise in wastewater treatment design and construction management enabled the Baldwinsville-Seneca Knolls WWTP to achieve significant operational, environmental, and aesthetic improvements. Modernized systems, such as the ATAD process and SCADA integration, improved efficiency and biosolids quality while reducing odor generation and environmental impact.

The project highlights B&L’s ability to integrate advanced technology, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and deliver critical infrastructure upgrades within an active treatment facility. By addressing immediate operational needs and future resilience, we helped secure the facility’s ability to serve the community for decades.