Kishwaukee College, Malta launches $ 7M sanitation project – Shaw Local
MALTA – A $ 7 million project to consolidate the sewage treatment facilities of the Village of Malta and Kishwaukee College was announced by state and local officials on Friday as a cost-saving measure. costs that will also improve the water quality of the area.
Officials from the Kishwaukee Water Claim District, Kishwaukee College and the village of Malta gathered at the college on Friday morning for an opening ceremony for the start of the sewage project, meant improving wastewater disposal for all three entities.
Kishwaukee Water Claim District in DeKalb was granted a $ 7.1 million state loan in March by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to consolidate the village of Malta and its facilities. Kishwaukee College Sewage Treatment
“While I am sure this is a very unique partnership for a community college, it is one that has served us all well,” said Laurie Borowicz, president of Kishwaukee College.
The original on-site sewage treatment plant was built when the school was built in 1968, and due to use over the past 53 years has exceeded its operating capabilities, officials said.
The project extends a sewer line operated from the reclamation district 5.3 miles west of DeKalb to Malta and the Kishwaukee College campus. The extension will allow both Malta and the college to decommission each existing existing sewage treatment center.
Officials also said Friday that the project will improve the water quality of the Kishwaukee River in the surrounding area by reducing water contaminants. Energy savings are also expected for both the college and the village.
The IEPA granted the district a $ 7,122,910 forgiveness loan for consolidation through the state department. State Revolving Fund Programintended to finance sewage, rainwater and drinking water projects through low-interest loans.
“Our mission is to protect the environment, that’s our primary mission,” IEPA Director John J. Kim said Friday. “We need to do this in a way that balances the needs of the citizens and also takes into account the social and economic needs of the state.”
According to Kishwaukee College documents, the project is expected to be completed by spring 2023.
“This project has been going on for over six years,” said Mark Eddington, executive director for the Kishwaukee Water Reclamation District. “Check all boxes. I have worked in this industry for 26 years and this is the most rewarding project I have ever been involved in. ”