North Brazos Wastewater Treatment Plant

The location of the wastewater treatment plant is on Buster Chatham Road, along the Brazos River. Choice of location was based on a number of considerations, including topography, proximity to waterways and prevailing winds.

The plant's tentative timeline estimates an engineering study in 2029, followed by permitting and design in 2030. Construction is estimated to begin in 2032. The timeline is based on the current growth rate and subject to reevaluation.

The future North Brazos Wastewater Treatment Plant will serve the China Spring service area. The existing China Spring area consists of 4,100 acres with an expected growth of 7,080 acres and a potential growth of 20,600 acres.

Wastewater influent would be treated similarly to the existing Bull Hide Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. See a flyover of the Bull Hide Wastewater Treatment Plant. Wastewater would be screened for debris such as plastic bottles and bags. The trash would go to the landfill. The wastewater would then be treated using a biological nutrient removal process. Solids would be separated from the liquid and transported to the Central Wastewater Treatment Plant to be processed into soil amendment pellets that are purchased and used by local farmers. The remaining water would be treated, filtered and disinfected with UV light. The resulting effluent will be returned to the Brazos River.

There are no plans to annex any adjacent properties. Changes to State of Texas Law requires that all annexation be voluntary.

At the time of construction, available technology will be evaluated to best control odor and noise pollution. The most recent odor control technology has been used by the City at Transfer Lift Station. Sound reduction technology and downcast lighting should minimize noise and light pollution as well. Berms and vegetation on the property, as well as possible crops from farmers leasing the property will also act as buffers.

Based on traffic to and from the Bull Hide plant, it is estimated that the future wastewater plant will have two operators with daily pickups and approximately three weekly trips taking solid waste to the Central Plant. A similar amount of traffic is expected at the future plant, along with occasional supply deliveries.

A berm on the property, screening vegetation and potential crops from lessees will play a part in screening the plant from the public. The size of the property allows placement of the plant in a less obtrusive location. The City also intends to explore architectural options to beautify infrastructure once the design of the plant is underway.