Oregon Department of Environmental Quality recognizes Estacada for effective use of EPA loan in wastewater treatment plant project

Oregon – According to the state officials, the City of Estacada was presented with a prestigious WATERS award by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday for its innovative and effective use of an Oregon Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan.

This recognition highlights the city’s efforts to replace its outdated 1963 wastewater treatment plant with a more efficient and sustainable facility, supported by a $5.5 million low-interest loan from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

EPA Regional Administrator Emma Pokon praised the project for its effective use of taxpayer funds to reduce costs for Estacada residents while simultaneously protecting the Clackamas River.

“The new infrastructure funded by EPA and Oregon DEQ is more efficient and helps the City meet the requirements of the Clean Water Act,” Pokon said. “It’s a great example of local government working with the State and EPA to serve the public.”

The new plant will address the compounding issues of aging infrastructure and growing population in Estacada, providing the necessary capacity for future growth while meeting strict water quality requirements. The project will also implement energy-efficient membrane bioreactor technology to produce clean effluent.

Elaina Turpin, Assistant City Manager, emphasized the importance of this project for both water quality and economic growth. “The funding for the City of Estacada’s new wastewater treatment plant ensures a sustainable solution for addressing immediate concerns for water quality and the opportunity to foster future economic growth.”

The new facility is currently 90% engineered, with groundbreaking set for fall 2025. It is expected to be completed within 18 to 24 months, marking a major step forward in the city’s environmental stewardship and water management.

Mayor Sean Drinkwine added, “We recognize that over 300,000 drinking water users take their water from the Clackamas River downstream from our plant. With the new plant, we are able to ensure that we are good stewards of our river.”

The project is being made more affordable thanks to the low-interest loan and $500,000 of principal forgiveness, helping to reduce the financial burden on the city and its ratepayers.