Bryan City Council Advances With Key Wastewater Plant Projects

In an ongoing effort to improve local wastewater treatment and ensure sustainable growth, the Bryan City Council has recently announced plans to expand one of its wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and start a replacement plant. These developments follow the council’s recent meeting where they awarded two key contracts related to these projects.

The Brushy Creek Replacement Plant Initiative

The new Brushy Creek plant, envisioned to serve Bryan’s east side, will replace the current Burton Creek WWTP on the city’s south side. An important step in making this a reality occurred during the May 2024 regular council meeting where a $179,000 contract was granted for a comprehensive feasibility and cost study to design the new plant.

Public works director Dr. Jayson Barfknecht, an instrumental figure leading the project, reported that the study will provide vital information pertaining to two design options. Intriguingly, one of these options suggests injecting treated water into the city’s underground water aquifers, potentially aiding future water consumption demands.

Expansion of the Thompson’s Creek WWTP

Simultaneously, an impressive $3.3 million contract has been approved for the expansion of the Thompson’s Creek WWTP, serving Bryan’s west side. According to Dr. Barfknecht, the Thompson’s Creek plant currently processes one million gallons per day. However, with expansion, this capacity could be significantly increased to eight million gallons per day.

Mayor Bobby Gutierrez and city manager Kean Register emphasized the enormous significance of the expansion, making note of its vital role in sustaining continued development in and around the RELLIS region.

Local Response Amid Flooding Concerns

This news comes amidst local concerns about the flooding rains experienced in May not sufficiently recharging the city’s underground aquifers. Alan Day, from the Brazos Valley groundwater district, explained that this was actually quite typical, as only a fraction of rainfall typically penetrates the district’s eight aquifers.

Nonetheless, the rains have reduced the amount of water being pumped for crop and lawn irrigation, somewhat alleviating immediate strain on water resources. Residents have been reminded to consult the Brazos Valley Water Smart website to ensure they are irrigating their lawns efficiently and sustainably.

A Step Forward for Bryan City

The Bryan City Council’s resolutions concerning the two wastewater plants signify a significant step forward towards improved water management and sustainable growth for Bryan City. As the city works to balance its rapid development with sustainable practices, these plant projects will provide an essential part of the infrastructure needed to ensure that growth is appropriately supported.

Looking Forward

As Bryan City continues with these ambitious projects, citizens can look forward to seeing significant strides in local wastewater management and sustainable growth. The council is seems to be keenly attuned to the needs of its community, and these recent actions serve as a testament to their commitment to maintaining a thriving, sustainable city for future generations.