The Delray Beach City Commission voted Dec. 8 to authorize Amendment No. 3 to the progressive design‑build contract (CDM Smith / progressive design‑build team), clearing the path to construction of the city’s new membrane water treatment plant.

Utilities staff said the project scope changed after new EPA PFAS guidance required redesign from an earlier 14 million gallons per day (MGD) design to 22 MGD. Utilities staff (presenter identified in the record) described advance procurement of long‑lead items (about $28 million) and construction of deep‑injection wells (procurement/current construction about $30 million) for concentrate disposal. The presenter gave the guaranteed maximum price for the construction phase as roughly $228–229 million and summarized the total project cost near $287 million, including prior work and associated elements. Staff said the design is nearly complete and sought a notice‑to‑proceed in January 2026, aiming for a mid‑2028 completion.

CDM Smith project staff emphasized work to limit neighborhood impacts (a contained membrane building, landscaping and access controls) and noted drilling for deep injection wells would begin soon. Commissioner discussion expressed broad support. The motion to approve Amendment No. 3 passed on a motion and voice vote; staff said they would schedule a formal groundbreaking celebration in January.

The project will require continuing project management, coordination across departments, and scheduled auditor/finance oversight for bond and procurement actions.