In Amarillo, Texas, a significant step has been taken to address the long-standing issues plaguing the Hollywood Wastewater Plant. With an allocation of $10 million, the city is set to bring crucial updates and improvements to this often malfunctioning facility. Last year alone, it was estimated that the Hollywood Road Treatment Facility spilled over 100,000 gallons of wastewater due to flooding and outdated infrastructure. This week, the Amarillo City Council made a decisive move by approving over $10 million to replace the aging equipment that is no longer functioning adequately.

Protecting Public Health and the Environment

The city's director of utilities, Michael Price, emphasizes the importance of maintaining and replacing equipment as it reaches the end of its life. This ensures that the Wastewater Treatment Plant can provide a continuous service to the citizens of Amarillo. Having modern and well-maintained wastewater facilities is vital for safeguarding public health and preserving the environment. As Cole Stanley, the mayor of Amarillo, points out, "Everything at this point is an emergent repair. Everything right now is to continue the life and the lifespan with a five-year goal of that existing very very under-maintained and fairly worn wastewater treatment plant."

Current Challenges and Limitations

The current head works system, which is responsible for removing trash and debris from wastewater, is only operating at 50%. This poses a significant challenge to the overall efficiency of the plant. The increasing population and aging infrastructure have put a heavy strain on the system, making it essential to take immediate action. The $10 million allocated will be used solely to keep the existing plant in compliance with regulatory requirements. However, the city is working hard to secure additional federal grant money to fund the construction of new facilities.

Looking Towards the Future

With a preliminary design and a comprehensive wastewater master plan already in the works, the construction of new facilities is set to begin by the summer of 2025. Stanley hopes that by obtaining additional funds, the new facility will not only meet the current needs but also have almost double the capacity to accommodate the expected growth in Amarillo. "We're hoping that we get those funds that way it doesn't go to our ratepayers and then within four to five years, you'd have a newly constructed facility. But not just at the same capacity, at almost a double capacity that would allow for all the growth that Amarillo is going to see," he said. The city is committed to moving forward as quickly as possible, despite the uncertainties surrounding the completion date, which will depend on construction, weather, supplies, and other variables.