Canton reviews water treatment plant capacity plans ahead of 2027 demand projections

Canton's City Council meeting on March 20, 2025, spotlighted a critical update on the city's water treatment plant, revealing urgent needs for infrastructure improvements to meet rising demand. Rob Vaccaro, a senior project manager from Black & Veatch, presented findings from a feasibility study that assessed the current plant's capacity and future requirements.

The existing water treatment facility, operational since the 1920s and last upgraded in the 1990s, currently processes 5.45 million gallons per day (MGD). However, projections indicate that peak demand could exceed this capacity as early as 2027. Vaccaro emphasized the necessity of expanding the plant's capacity to 8 MGD to avoid potential violations of state permits, which could result in fines for the city.

Two main options were proposed for addressing the capacity issue. The first involves upgrading the existing plant, which would cost approximately $36 million and could extend its operational life significantly. The second option suggests constructing a parallel package plant, estimated at just over $30 million, which would add 2 MGD to the existing capacity and allow for uninterrupted service during construction.

Council members expressed their commitment to making swift decisions regarding these options, recognizing the importance of maintaining clean water for residents and businesses. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the timeline, with discussions indicating that construction could begin as early as 2028 if the council acts promptly.

As the city grapples with its water infrastructure needs, the feasibility study serves as a crucial step in ensuring that Canton can meet future demands while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. The council's next steps will involve further discussions and evaluations of the proposed options to secure the city's water supply for years to come.