Rockingham is moving ahead with the first major upgrade to its wastewater-treatment plant in more than three decades.
The city awarded a construction contract valued at approximately $12.7 million to Harper General Contractors of Greenville, South Carolina. City Council has also updated the project’s capital ordinance to reflect the final revenue and expenditure estimates.
First major upgrade since 1990
The project is expected to improve sludge-handling efficiency and add stronger backup-power capability. City officials say the work will also help Rockingham pursue its goal of developing a regional wastewater-treatment facility.
Expanded and modernized treatment capacity can support residential construction, industrial recruitment and other economic-development projects that depend on reliable utility service.
State funding supports construction
Rockingham previously accepted a $12.8 million state grant for water and wastewater infrastructure. The current project budget also includes a contingency of approximately $1.33 million.
City officials said they are continuing discussions with state legislators about obtaining additional appropriations that could reduce the amount of local funding required.
Source: Richmond Observer.
