The city of Palm Coast has grown so much, the system that handles the city’s waste water is on track to hit capacity.
- Palm Coast broke ground on new waste water treatment facility
- Without the new system, the city could not support future growth
- Plan should be finished by 2018
With a shovel full of dirt, Palm Coast city council members broke ground on a brand new $25 million advanced waste water treatment facility.
The city's old one was built in the 70s.
"As people build new homes and we attract more businesses and commercial and retail establishments in our community, we'll be able to service them without any interruption," said Mayor John Netts.
It will pump 2 million gallons a day to start and increase later as new homes and businesses are built.
"When the waste water is treated, the effluent coming out of this plant will be used primarily for irrigation purposes but it approaches near drinking water standards," said Richard Adams, utility director.
Without the new system, the area could not support any further growth.
Business owners welcome the new facility.
"Growth is good and you have to do this to accommodate, like you say, building new houses and stuff like that. I remember when it was really slow here," said On the Block Barbers owner Rasheck Upson.
Construction trailers are set to go up on the property by next week and the project is expected to be completed by 2018. The city said utility cost will remain the same for customers.