SUNDRE – Although a specific timeline yet remains elusive for when testing will begin on the municipality’s new addition to the wastewater treatment facility, the project is progressing.
Council heard during the regular April 11 meeting an update from Linda Nelson, chief administrative officer.
“The footings for the building that will house the wastewater technology have been poured,” said Nelson.
“They were allowed to cure under a thermal blanket,” she said, calling that approach an “incredibly effective method” used to ensure the material cures at the correct temperatures.
“We were then required to complete a 28-day stress test on the concrete to ensure that it was strong enough to bear the weight of the building,” she said.
The compression tests produced great results, she said, adding that in order to make code, the concrete had to pass a stress test rating of a minimum of 30 megapascals (MPa).
Two cylinders were tested, with both coming back in with stress tests that passed at a little more than 34 MPa.
“So, we have exceeded the stress test for that,” she said.
Additionally, the administrator said she had been informed that the steel walls and roof trusses were nearing completion.
“They may already be done now, and they should be going up in the next week or so,” she said. “Once the building shell has been completed, then all of that interior work needs be completed.”
That work includes installing poly walls, piping as well as power and an internal slab, she said.
“Once the interior and exterior have all been done, the technology will then be installed,” she said. “And that is being built offsite right now as we speak.”
However, as of the time of council’s meeting there was still no set date for testing to begin.
“But as soon as I have that information, I will report again,” she said.
Mayor Richard Warnock thanked Nelson for the update.
“I think a lot of people are wondering where we are and what stage we’re at,” the mayor said.
“There were so many hold-ups with the supply chain and the shortage of steel,” she said. “It was all rather frustrating; but things are marching ahead now.”
Council accepted the report for information.
The new technology that will be piloted at the traditional three-cell sewage lagoon is not intended to replace but rather enhance the existing facility by drastically improving the quality of treated effluent as well as the total volume that can be processed.
The estimated $11.5 million project is the result of a partnership between the Town of Sundre, the Alberta government – which is providing $7.5 million – as well as private sector technology partners.
