Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Renews Environmental Contract With Veolia

The city of Poughkeepsie in New York has renewed an agreement with Veolia, the global leader in environmental solutions and optimized resource management, to continue managing and operating its wastewater system under a 10-year contract.

Spanning more than 35 years, this environmental partnership has delivered a record of compliance and safety, while generating millions in savings for the community. Since its the partnership's inception, Veolia North America has managed the wastewater system and facilities for the city of Poughkeepsie, which serves a population of approximately 45,000. 

Under a renewed 10-year public-private partnership, Veolia will operate, maintain and manage (O&M) the city's 10-mgd activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, 10 pump stations, biosolids management, Industrial Pretreatment Program, sludge disposal and storm water management. Veolia will also provide capital support for upgrades to the city's wastewater treatment plant and pump stations to improve efficiencies and yield additional savings.

Since entering this successful O&M partnership, Poughkeepsie has garnered regional safety awards from the New York State Water Pollution Control Association, met strict environmental requirements and achieved significant improvements to odor control.

"Through this partnership with Veolia, the city has reduced odor complaints by 85%, while maintaining an outstanding record of regulatory compliance–helping to protect the environment and ensure the safety of the community and its citizens," said Joseph Chenier, Poughkeepsie assistant civil engineer. "In addition, Veolia has helped deliver millions in savings by streamlining operational efficiencies and introducing new technology and innovative programs that have generated revenue for the city. We look forward to working with Ed Steeprock, project manager for Veolia, and his team for years to come."

Using a stringent O&M plan and approach, Veolia has reduced operating expenses for the city by $170,000 annually. In addition, the revenue-generating septage receiving program introduced by Veolia has yielded approximately $800,000 annually and $6.6 million total in revenues for the city over the last 10 years–a key factor in offsetting water and sewer rate increases for residents.

As part of this renewed O&M agreement with the city, Veolia will also help lower long-term operating costs through a $600,000 capital investment. By improving the sludge dewatering and odor control systems, the hauling costs for sludge disposal will be reduced by an estimated 40% to 50%.

"As our longest-running partnership in New York State and as one of the oldest public-private partnerships in North America, our joint accomplishments illustrate our commitment to delivering cost-effective, safe and environmentally compliant services," said William J. DiCroce, Veolia North America president and CEO. "Together, we've also been able to create value for the community by helping mitigate rate increases through innovative technical programs."

Source: Veolia North America