Amarillo advances environmental review for $60M wastewater plant loan

Amarillo advances environmental review for $60M wastewater plant loanThe city anticipates a finding of no significant environmental impact by July, which will release Texas Water Development Board funds for the Hollywood Road II facility's design.

The city is seeking a $60 million low-interest loan from the TWDB for the Hollywood Road II Wastewater Treatment Facility.

An Environmental Information Document prepared by Kimley-Horn identified no impacts to wetlands or floodplains.

Public comments on the environmental review will be accepted through May 5, 2026.

Staff were also directed to identify $250,000 in funding for a separate wastewater extension design request, with a vote expected May 12.

The City of Amarillo is advancing its application for a $60 million low-interest loan from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to fund the proposed Hollywood Road II Wastewater Treatment Facility. During the April 28, 2026, city council meeting, officials confirmed the completion of a draft Environmental Information Document (EID), a mandatory step in the state funding process. Kelly Saladas of Kimley-Horn presented the EID findings to the council following a public open house held earlier in the day. Saladas noted that the environmental review evaluated potential project impacts and found no disruptions to wetlands or floodplains. The city will accept written public comments on the draft EID through May 5, 2026. Once public and agency comments are addressed, the final EID will be submitted to the TWDB. City staff anticipate receiving a "finding of no significant impact" from the board, potentially at its July meeting. This designation will allow the $60 million in loan funding to be released so the city can advance the facility's design. In addition to the treatment plant, the council discussed a $250,000 design request for a wastewater extension project at 58th and Osage. Staff were directed to identify potential funding sources, either from excess funds or other capital improvement projects, and bring the item back for a formal vote on May 12. The council also approved two utility equipment purchases: $59,021 to Reece for replacement valves on the 45-inch Carson County Well Field water main, and $55,853 to Austin Armature Works to replace 50-year-old motors and pumps at Lift Station 16.