From NORTHWESTERN WATER & SEWER DISTRICT
The Northwestern Water and Sewer District (The District) is one step closer to starting the largest infrastructure initiative in its 30-year history. The Dunbridge SR 582 Water and Sewer Project will extend public sanitary sewer and water lines to the Dunbridge area in Middleton Township and the I-75/SR 582 interchange to improve water quality, fire protection, and environmental conditions. This project can potentially serve additional properties along the seven-mile route of the new sewer system.
The District Board of Trustees approved the award of a construction contract valued at approximately $13.1 million to Underground Utilities Inc. of Monroeville, Ohio. Construction is scheduled to begin late this year and is scheduled for completion in late 2025.
According to District President Jerry Greiner, “This project will significantly benefit the region by enhancing public health and environmental quality while also providing vital infrastructure for the future of Wood County and the region that will support our schools and local communities for years to come.”
Project Scope and Details
- Geographical Coverage: The project will cover the area along SR 582 from Midstar Drive to Walnut Street in Dunbridge and on Dunbridge Road to the wastewater treatment plant in Bowling Green.
- Infrastructure: The project includes the installation of 5.8 miles of sanitary sewer and 2.3 miles of water line, in addition to two new sanitary pump stations.
- Funding and Timeline: $8.7 million of the project is allocated from the Wood County Commissioners through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The remaining costs will be partially funded through a 0% loan from Ohio EPA. The loan will be paid for future development and fees for connection to the water and sewer facilities.
Public Health and Environmental Benefits
- Elimination of Septic Systems: The primary public health benefit is eliminating pollution caused by aging septic systems. The Ohio EPA issued findings and orders to construct sanitary sewers in Dunbridge because septic systems in the area are discharging untreated sewage into local ditches, posing significant health risks.
- Improved Water Quality: By providing a centralized sewer system, the project will prevent raw sewage from contaminating local water bodies, thereby improving the overall water quality in the area.
- Future Growth at Interchange: The project will make the area more attractive for future growth by providing essential water and sewer services.
Community Impact
- Support for Low-Income Residents: This project provides a cost-effective solution for low-income households unable to afford new septic systems, with funding support from the allocation from Wood County Commissioners ARPA funding.
