The Washington County Board of Commissioners voted last week to award a $23.7 million contract to HRI Bridge Co., of State College, Pennsylvania, to make major upgrades to the Conococheague Wastewater Treatment Plant near Williamsport. The project includes installation of specialized “BioMag” equipment which will enhance the removal of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, while increasing the facility’s capacity. The equipment is anticipated to save ratepayers $68 per year.

The County is completing the work in order to comply with state mandates to limit its Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), which requires reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus discharge  from entering the Chesapeake Bay. About 60 percent of the total cost of the project will be paid by state funding, making the county’s portion roughly $10 million from its capital budget. The project is expected to begin this fall and take 18 months to complete.

The Herald-Mail reports about this award here.