Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
Today, in a significant investment to improve water infrastructure in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), alongside local authorities, announced funding to begin a major upgrade project at the Bayamon Wastewater Treatment Plant. The $22.7 million upgrade, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will modernize the facility with advanced technology to ensure the effective treatment of wastewater for the communities served by the second-largest wastewater treatment plant in Puerto Rico.
"The modernization of the Bayamon Wastewater Treatment Plant, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is not just an upgrade of facilities; it’s an investment in the health and future of over 260,000 residents," said EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe. "This $22.7 million project, which includes crucial upgrades to the plant’s operations, reflects the commitment of the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA to safeguarding environmental health and bolstering the economy."
“EPA’s commitment to safeguarding environmental health spans across the nation, including the vital ecosystems of Puerto Rico,” said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “The funding for these enhancements to the Bayamon plant are a testament to our dedication to partnering with local governments to provide communities with reliable and clean water services.”
EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe and Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia announced the funding at a ceremony with Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) President Doriel Pagán and Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Anais Rodriguez. The officials gathered at the site of the modernization project, which promises to significantly improve the plant’s operations.
The project, funded by a $22.7 million investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and administered by DNER through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, includes replacing catwalks, gratings, and six inflowing pumps that provide access for maintenance and inspections. Additionally, six inflowing pumps crucial for water movement within the plant will be upgraded or replaced. There will also be upgrades to other key parts of the facility such as screening buildings, mechanical screens, belt conveyor systems among others. These improvements are expected to benefit approximately 260,000 residents in Bayamon Municipality.
The Bayamon Wastewater Treatment Plant has been operational since May 1983 and is designed to treat an average of 40 million gallons per day (MGD), with a peak capacity of 68 MGD. It serves municipalities including Bayamon, Guaynabo, Cataño Toa Baja Toa Alta The treated waste merges with outputs from other regional plants before being released into Atlantic Ocean emphasizing importance this upgrade project part broader initiative under Bipartisan Infrastructure Law reflecting renewed focus on critical investments across United States Puerto Rico upgrades address pollution enhance quality life create job opportunities
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