Milwaukee to build $13 million facility for advanced wastewater tech testing
(UI) — The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) has announced plans for a groundbreaking clean-water research lab at its Oak Creek reclamation facility. The $13 million lab will test new wastewater treatment technologies and is expected to significantly impact public health and drinking water quality worldwide.
The new facility will enable water technology companies, universities, and inventors to collaborate with MMSD on large-scale trials at an operational treatment plant. This initiative continues Milwaukee's tradition of leading wastewater and water technology innovation.
“This facility marks the latest progression in Milwaukee’s long history of wastewater and water technology innovation,” said Kevin Shafer, MMSD Executive Director. “The new technologies have incredible potential to increase energy reuse, improve filtration, prevent sewer overflows, and save millions of dollars for ratepayers.”
The lab’s initial projects will focus on two emerging filtration technologies not yet deployed on a large scale in the U.S. Early estimates suggest these technologies could:
- Save $90 million over 20 years
- Boost waste-to-energy production
- Reduce chemical use
- Further decrease sewer overflows and basement backups
The pilot study has already secured federal backing, including a $3.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy and an additional $1.2 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, thanks to efforts from U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Congresswoman Gwen Moore.
The new facility also supports Milwaukee’s bid for the National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engine award, aiming to secure up to $160 million in NSF funds over the next decade. This initiative, led by The Water Council and a consortium of local entities, will drive advancements in water technology and sustainability.
“Once again, MMSD is showing its leadership in developing wastewater technologies that will help reduce carbon emissions and preserve critical freshwater resources,” said Dean Amhaus, The Water Council president and CEO. “This facility is a huge step in the development of the Water + Energy Forward engine.”
Construction of the research facility is scheduled to begin in 2026. The lab will explore technologies intended to replace the outdated primary clarifiers at MMSD’s South Shore Water Reclamation Facility, which have been in use since 1968 and are approaching the end of their operational lifespan.
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