Johnson County, Kansas, is embarking on a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving wastewater management and achieving substantial cost savings. The State Line Road Pump Stations and Forcemain project involves constructing new pump stations and a force main to redirect wastewater flow from the Leawood Service Area to the recently upgraded Tomahawk Wastewater Treatment Facility. This initiative is projected to save over $100 million in treatment costs over the next two decades.
Background and Context
Currently, wastewater from northern Leawood, particularly areas north of I-435, is treated by Kansas City, Missouri, under an interlocal agreement. This arrangement incurs significant costs for Johnson County Wastewater (JCW). The completion of the Tomahawk Wastewater Treatment Facility provides an opportunity to treat this wastewater within the county, leading to enhanced operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Project Details
- Scope and Structure: The project entails constructing three new pump stations and a common force main along State Line Road in Leawood. These facilities will collect wastewater from the Leawood Service Area and convey it to the Tomahawk facility for treatment.
- Cost and Funding: The Board of County Commissioners has authorized a total project budget of approximately $40.86 million, with the latest funding approval of $30.13 million on October 31, 2024.
- Expected Timeline: Construction is slated to commence in late 2024, with completion anticipated by early 2027.
Benefits and Impact
- Financial Savings: By redirecting wastewater to the Tomahawk facility, JCW expects to save over $100 million in treatment costs over 20 years, with a payback period of approximately 6 to 7 years.
- Environmental Impact: Treating wastewater within the county reduces reliance on external systems, leading to improved environmental stewardship and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Long-Term Infrastructure Goals: This project aligns with JCW’s Integrated Plan, a 25-year strategy focused on prioritizing infrastructure investments to meet future wastewater management needs.
Stakeholders and Community Involvement
Key stakeholders include JCW, the Board of County Commissioners, the City of Leawood, and local residents. Engagement efforts have included public meetings and consultations to inform and involve the community in the project’s development.
Challenges and Considerations
Potential challenges encompass engineering complexities, environmental considerations, and minimizing disruptions during construction. JCW is proactively addressing these issues through careful planning and community engagement to ensure a smooth implementation process.
Future Outlook
The State Line Road Pump Stations and Forcemain project is a pivotal component of JCW’s broader efforts to enhance wastewater infrastructure. Future initiatives under the Integrated Plan aim to further improve service delivery, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency across Johnson County.
Conclusion
The State Line Road Pump Stations and Forcemain project represents a strategic investment in Johnson County’s infrastructure, promising significant financial savings and environmental benefits. By redirecting wastewater treatment to the Tomahawk facility, the county is taking a proactive step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future.
For more information, visit JCW’s official project page.
