The project to consolidate treatment facilities in a single enlarged and modernized Novato Wastewater Treatment Plant is now over 50 percent complete and on schedule and on budget. Change orders to date total less than one percent of the contract.

The upgraded plant is coming on line in phases as part of a total $90 million, multi-year improvement in treatment facilities. The secondary biosolids thickening process started in August 2008, and the new headworks and primary clarifier in January 2009.

The improvements already have resulted in better treatment and water quality.

Meanwhile, the Ignacio Pump Station, converted from an aging and inefficient treatment plant, has been in full and effective operation, pumping wastewater to the Novato plant through a new 16-inch pipeline.