This Friday is a big day for Monroe, Michigan. The Monroe Water Treatment Plant turns 100 years old. Since March 1, 1924, this plant has been key to giving folks in the community safe, clean drinking water. Its work has helped get rid of bad diseases like typhoid fever around here.
A Century of Innovation and Service
The Monroe Water Treatment Plant isn’t just one of Michigan’s oldest. it’s also known for staying up with the times. It all started back in the early 1900s when a nasty outbreak of typhoid fever showed everyone how much we needed clean water. The people in charge back then, who we now call the City Council, got the ball rolling on a water treatment system to keep everyone in Monroe healthy and safe.
Important Events in the Plant’s Life,
1915, An outbreak of Typhoid Fever
1917, Taken over from the Monroe Water Company
1924, Grand opening of the Monroe Water Treatment Plant
1948 &. 1951, Grew bigger and started adding fluoride
1972, Bigger overhaul and added ozone treatment
1985 &. 1997, More growth and fixing up
2006 2024, Ongoing updates and getting with the times.
Peeking into the Plant
The facility, home to 11 hardworking individuals and managed by Barry LaRoy, who is the head of water and wastewater services for the City of Monroe, stands out for its stellar work in cleaning water. LaRoy brings a wealth of knowledge with his many years in the field and his specialist training in engineering, and he’s played a key role in running the plant and marking its special anniversaries.
To celebrate 100 years, anyone interested can come check out the place at 915 E. Front St. on March 1, starting at 9.
From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. visitors can explore the world of water treatment. They’ll be shown around and learn about the facility’s background, cutting-edge methods, and steps like ozonation, sedimentation, flocculation, clarification, filtration, and disinfection.
The Plant’s Impact on the Community
Since its inception, when it treated 4 million gallons of water per day, the Monroe Water Treatment Plant now processes an impressive 18 million gallons daily. It is essential for the growth of the area, supplying clean drinking water to 12 communities over 117 square miles, benefiting more than 16,000 customers. Its extensive system includes over 309 miles of pipes, three large tanks, and a couple of big underground reservoirs, showcasing the city’s dedication to maintaining high water quality.
Recognition and Future Outlook
The Monroe Water Treatment Plant has been praised for its significant advancements in water treatment technology.
The Monroe Water Treatment Plant has received awards and recognition over time, including being named an “An American Water Landmark” by the American Water Works Association in 1985. As the plant embarks on its second century, it aims to keep innovating and taking excellent care of water as a vital resource.
Conclusion
The centennial of the Monroe Water Treatment Plant isn’t just about celebrating a building. it’s a time to think about the role of clean water and what it takes to preserve it. It tells the tale of how a community, when struck by a health emergency, united to erect a system that’s lasted over time, continuously supplying essential water to its people. Looking ahead, Monroe’s plant will keep contributing to the wellbeing of those in the days to come.
This anniversary is a chance for everyone to get involved with the science and stories of one of Michigan’s oldest yet most current water treatment facilities.
Tours need reservations, which shows how the plant is important for both public health and taking care of the environment. With ongoing upgrades and a focus on being great, the Monroe Water Treatment Plant will keep being a part of the community for a long time ahead.
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