Project Overview EU195
This project installed a temporary bypass system around the Plant Headworks Facilities. The bypass system diverts up to 15 million gallons of sewer influent per day. The Headworks facilities remove floatable debris (rags, sticks, etc.) and sinkable debris (sand, gravel, grit) from the sewer influent. The temporary system installed provided similar treatment processes during the bypass, and was installed above ground.
The construction of this temporary system allowed for cleaning and inspection to occur within areas of the headworks which are continuously submerged and cannot be accessed under normal operating conditions. The plant receives sewer influent 24 hours daily. This bypass project was implemented to support a full condition assessment of the Headworks facilities.
Project Status – 2024
The project was designed in 2023, with a solicitation for construction bids issued on January 18, 2024. The plant headworks bypass operation was successfully completed on August 15, 2024. The contractor has removed the bypass equipment and restored the plant perimeter fencing. The trail on the east side of the plant was re-opened on September 6. No further closures are expected. Thanks for your patience!
The project began construction in summer 2024 and will lasted for about 3 months. The work required the closure of a portion of the trail system near 4th Street to the east of the plant. Access to the trail system areas in the Plant Expansion Area from the south and west sides of the plant remained open. When the project was completed, all bypass infrastructure was removed, and any site disturbances restored.
A condition assessment project for the Plant Headworks and Primary Clarifier units was initiated in 2023 to inform and prioritize future rehabilitation and renovation work within this portion of the plant. Certain areas within the headworks have been continuously submerged since 1992 or earlier. Exposure and cleaning of these areas allowed for the condition assessment work to be completed. This project is part of the City’s continuous efforts to maintain and manage our aging infrastructure assets.
The project bid is $1,722,779.46. This project is funded by the City of Bellingham Sewer Fund
Contact
Stephen Day
Plants Engineer
Phone: (360) 778-7944
Email: smday@cob.org
Media inquiries: Email pwmedia@cob.org
