Update on Water Quality Improvement Project

NEWS RELEASE

PUC SERVICES

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The PUC would like to inform customers that the final step in commissioning the newly installed soda ash system at the water treatment plant has been completed.

The soda ash system is the final advanced treatment method prescribed in Stage 1 of the Water Quality Improvement Project (the Project).

With the implementation of Stage 1 complete, PUC will continue to monitor and adjust the new systems.

An Ipsos Reid survey, designed to measure public satisfaction with the city’s water quality, will be conducted in the 4th quarter of 2015.

The results of this survey will be compared to the baseline established by the previous survey conducted in May 2014, to help determine Stage 1’s effectiveness.

The results of this survey and all other relevant information will be used to determine whether implementing Stage 2 of the Project will be required.

During this period of monitoring and adjustment, the PUC will continue working on a related project – Water Production Capacity Improvements.

The PUC is exploring options to replace the capacity of the Lorna Wells (presently on standby), improve water reserve contingencies and meet estimated demands for future development.

Potential solutions being considered include: increasing groundwater well production using new or existing wells, and increasing the production capacity of the existing water treatment plant.

All of these options are being evaluated through the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) process.

Residents can find more information on the MCEA process by visiting the PUC website, or clicking here.      

Additionally, the PUC would like to advise the public that the annual Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) program is currently underway.

Flushing started on Tuesday May 12th in the Manitou Park area and will continue in the east end of the city through the summer and fall.

The UDF Program is recognized as an industry best practice for improving water quality, and has played a critical role in preparing the distribution system for the implementation of the Advanced Treatment Methods.

Customers looking for more information on the Project, the MCEA process and the UDF program, are encouraged to visit the PUC website; www.ssmpuc.com or call Customer Service at 705-759-6522 Monday through Friday (9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.).

The PUC is committed to keeping its customers informed on the progress of this important Project with these regular monthly updates.

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