Sandy Run Creek Water Pollution Control Plant Expansion and Improvements

Ardurra designed and permitted a process upgrade and 3 MGD expansion to the existing 9 MGD Sandy Run Creek Water Pollution Control Plant, representing the largest public works project in Warner Robins' history. The expansion supports future growth in Warner Robins and neighboring middle Georgia communities relying on the facility for wastewater treatment while meeting stringent new environmental standards.

Ardurra delivered exceptional value engineering, completing the project for $30.3 million compared to initial estimates of $46-50 million, saving the city nearly $20 million. The design converted existing conventional aeration basins into a 3-stage Bardenpho biological nutrient removal (BNR) process, meeting new NPDES permit limits including 1 mg/L total phosphorus and 1 mg/L effluent ammonia requirements.

Key Project Achievements:

• Expanded plant capacity from 9 MGD to 12 MGD through innovative process modifications meeting stringent EPD nitrogen and phosphorus limits

• Achieved $20 million cost savings delivering project for $30.3 million versus initial $46-50 million estimates from national firm

• Converted existing infrastructure, transforming conventional aeration basins into 3-stage Bardenpho BNR process, maximizing existing assets

• Constructed a new treatment infrastructure, including two 140-foot diameter clarifiers, deep bed sand filters, and chlorine contact basin

• Modified rectangular clarifiers into aeration basins with gaseous chlorination/dechlorination equipment and effluent pumping systems

• Completed comprehensive services spanning permitting, design, and construction management, ensuring seamless project delivery

• Met challenging permit requirements, including 2.9 mg/L effluent nitrogen limit and enhanced phosphorus removal standards

The expansion completed in 2014 provides Warner Robins with enhanced treatment capacity to support regional growth while demonstrating exceptional, cost-effective engineering solutions. Strategic process modifications and innovative design approaches established new benchmarks for municipal wastewater facility upgrades and expansion projects.