Membrane Filter Project Fact Sheet

  • The existing DCPCMUD water treatment plant is almost 60 years old and currently meets all Federal and State regulations as well as holds the highest quality rating by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
  • In 2004, a Final Report issued by MWH consulting engineers provided recommendations on plant improvements required to ensure future regulatory compliance with upcoming Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules that will become effective in 2012 and 2013.  These rules are the Long-Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule and the Stage 2 Disinfectants/Disinfection By-Products Rule.
  • Four alternatives were evaluated in the 2004 Report:
    • Optimize Existing Plant
    • Install Membranes and Optimize Existing Plant
    • Install Ozone and Optimize Existing Plant
    • Install Ultraviolet (UV) Light and Optimize Existing Plant

 

  • Of the four alternatives, “Install Membranes and Optimize Existing Plant” was the best-ranked option selected for implementation after considering costs as well as non-economic advantages and disadvantages.  Membranes will ensure full compliance with the pending EPA drinking water regulations and will provide “bottled water quality” to the citizens of University Park and Highland Park.  The plant upgrades also include adding granular activated carbon to the existing filters for taste and odor control year-round.
    • In 2006, DCPCMUD hired CDM consulting engineers to perform a Membrane Pilot Study in accordance with TCEQ requirements and prepare a Preliminary Design Report.  In 2007 the Pilot Study Report was submitted to and approved by TCEQ and in 2008 the Preliminary Design Report was completed.
    • In 2009, DCPCMUD retained CDM consulting engineers to design the plant improvements to install membranes and upgrade the existing plant.  Design will be completed by May 2010.
    • Construction of the plant improvements will take place from 2010 to 2012, with construction completion anticipated by early summer of 2012.
    • DCPCMUD has received approval from the Texas Water Development Board to utilize up to $33 million in State bond funds.  Alternatively, DCPCMUD may opt to sell revenue bonds on the open market if this option provides a lower interest rate.  The decision on funding will be made in 2010 when the project is bid.