Construction Update with Innovative Upgrades to Wastewater Treatment Plant

A transformative project is underway at the Isle La Plume Wastewater Treatment Plant in the City of La Crosse. In this construction update, we bring you the latest news on the remarkable efforts led by the project team. Over three and a half years, significant milestones have been achieved, propelling the plant towards enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and advanced technology. 

PROJECT OVERVIEW AND TEAM

The project is being undertaken by C.D. Smith Construction, with Nick Beil serving as the project manager. Eric Lynne from Donahue and Associates is the engineer, and Jared Greeno is the superintendent at the wastewater treatment plant.

MILESTONES ACHIEVED

As we enter the spring of 2023, several important milestones have been reached. One notable accomplishment is the installation of a second fine screen, which will enhance the treatment process at the La Crosse facility. Additionally, building 390 has undergone upgrades to improve sludge heating, mixing, and digester recirculation. These enhancements increase system effectiveness and readiness for the sludge dryer.

BIOSOLIDS MANAGEMENT AND COGENERATION

The 500 building focuses on improving biosolids management. Instead of hauling liquid and land application, the introduction of a heat dryer enables heat drying and the production of class-A fertilizer for marketing. Furthermore, the building includes a cogeneration system that captures methane gas and converts it into electricity. This process helps offset the electrical costs of the wastewater plant, promoting sustainability for the City of La Crosse.

ENHANCEMENTS IN BIOLOGICAL PHOSPHORUS REMOVAL

Enhancements in Biological Phosphorus Removal: The aeration system has received an upgrade, including new aeration diffusers that release fine bubbles, infusing the biology with oxygen. Additionally, the selector zones have been rearranged to improve BioPIC, which enhances biological phosphorus removal and nutrient transfer.

CHALLENGES AND FUTURE TASKS

Throughout the construction process, various buildings and tanks have undergone upgrades. However, working on certain tanks has been restricted due to high river levels. Fortunately, this spring, most of the work was conducted on high-ground areas, avoiding any disruptions caused by the river. As summer approaches and the river levels recede, the remaining tasks requiring access to tanks will be completed. One significant upcoming task is the re-electrification of the entire plant using new medium voltage cable. Subsequently, the focus will shift to structure 240, the disc filter building.

FINAL STAGES OF CONSTRUCTION

With the completion of the disc filter building, major construction milestones will be accomplished. Minor upgrades in the aeration tanks will follow, leading to the final stages of construction, scheduled for the fall to winter of '23. The Isle La Plume Wastewater Treatment Plant will soon conclude its transformative journey.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

C.D. Smith Construction expresses gratitude to all involved parties, including the dedicated staff at the wastewater treatment plant, subcontractors, and other individuals responsible for the progress achieved thus far. Their collaborative efforts have contributed to the successful near-completion of this vital project.

CONCLUSION

This construction update on the Isle La Plume Wastewater Treatment Plant demonstrates a commitment to improving wastewater treatment processes, sustainability and environmental stewardship. The enhancements made throughout the project will position the City of La Crosse for a more efficient and eco-friendly future.