Columbus approves $22M water infrastructure package, led by $12.4M residuals dewatering contract

Columbus approves $22M water infrastructure package, led by $12.4M residuals dewatering contractThe Columbus City Council authorized a suite of capital projects on April 20, 2026, advancing major stormwater drainage improvements, storage tank rehabilitations, and a multi-million-dollar water treatment residuals management agreement.

Council approved a $12.4 million contract modification with Synagro Central, LLC for turnkey dewatering and residuals management at the McKinley Avenue Quarry.

A $2.56 million construction contract was awarded to JLD Construction Services for the Krieger Court Stormwater Improvements Project.

Over $3.9 million was allocated for facility rehabilitations, including roof renovations at the Parsons Avenue Water Plant and recoating a 2-million-gallon storage tank.

On April 20, 2026, the Columbus City Council approved a series of significant water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure contracts totaling over $22 million. The approvals, presented during the Public Utilities and Sustainability Committee report, advance critical maintenance, residuals management, and drainage projects across the city's utility network. The largest single expenditure authorized was a $12.4 million contract modification with Synagro Central, LLC for the Water Treatment Residuals Turnkey Dewatering Services Project. Funded through the Water Operating Fund, the contract provides management services for water treatment residuals stored at the McKinley Avenue Quarry. The committee chair noted that the scope includes the dewatering, processing, and utilization of residuals produced at all three of the city's water treatment plants. On the stormwater front, the council greenlit the Krieger Court Stormwater Improvements Project, awarding a $2,567,522.66 construction contract to JLD Construction Services, LLC. The project will improve an existing stormwater drainage basin in the Westland community and replace inadequately sized storm sewers downstream. Funding for the project is contingent upon a loan from the Ohio Water Development Authority. Significant investments were also directed toward asset preservation at existing facilities. General Maintenance & Engineering Company was awarded a $2,346,250 contract for the second phase of roof renovations at the Parsons Avenue Water Plant. The repairs are designed to preserve structural integrity and prevent interior damage, ensuring uninterrupted water plant operations. Additionally, Clearcreek Coatings, LTD secured a $1,614,938.50 contract to recoat one of the Division of Water's 2-million-gallon storage tanks and implement safety improvements to prolong its useful service life. Other notable approvals included a $1.52 million contract renewal with The Righter Co., Inc. for specialty maintenance craft services at various Columbus Water and Power facilities, a $249,349 replacement of the camera system at Hoover Dam, and a $1.2 million procurement of five dump trucks to support utility excavation and hauling operations.