Background
Water center, also known a Gilbert Mosley have been treating polluted ground water since 2003.
This center is in Herman Hill Park by Pawnee and Broadway street. This is a public private partnership project and one of its kind in the entire country. It has won many accolades too. If you have not been there, it may be a good idea to visit and see. Libby, the project manager, is very good lady and adds another charm to already successful project.
History
Coleman and many other small companies especially the dry-cleaners operating in the downtown area released much of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and dump them in the ground due to lack of proper regulations in early 1900's. When this was found in early 90's, it was devastating for the city. This problem could undermine the city and its economic resources. 17% of the tax base and other properties revenue sources could be eliminated. They could not turn it into Superfund site because it take long time to complete the bureaucratic hurdle and finally get implemented. On average it takes 10 years to complete a Superfund site.
Present
This plant treats 1.2 million gallons of polluted water everyday. It also houses a education center which teaching about the management, conservation and stewardship of water resources. This project has help save economy and quality life of Wichitains.
I didn't realize that the facility treated that much water. I have been by it, but I didn't know that people were able to go in and learn about it. I will have to do that one of these days.
ReplyDeleteThis treatment facility is right next door to me. I have walk around the park before and noticed the fish tanks, but like Alex I didn't know people could go in and learn.
ReplyDeleteSo how is it progressing? Obviously the water quality is much better than is was when the plant was built, but, given that the plant has "won many accolades," how does Wichita's water quality compare to other cities and other areas of the country?
ReplyDelete