Westminster, Maryland, is set to become a trailblazer in water reuse with the launch of its PUREWater Westminster project. This winter, construction will begin on a facility at the city’s wastewater treatment plant to purify treated wastewater using advanced membranes and UV light, then redirect it to the city’s drinking water reservoir.
PUREWater Westminster will be Maryland’s first initiative to recycle wastewater for drinking, a practice already common in drought-prone regions. This project, along with a potential similar effort in Anne Arundel County, represents a growing trend on the East Coast in response to water scarcity and climate change.
The facility will implement a four-step purification process, including reverse osmosis and advanced filtration techniques, to ensure the water meets or exceeds drinking standards. The project, estimated to cost between $14 and $16 million, aims to alleviate water shortages that have long plagued the city, exacerbated by past droughts and population growth.
With construction expected to start in January and the facility operational in 12 to 14 months, Westminster’s initiative reflects a broader shift towards sustainable water management solutions.
Westminster, Maryland, is poised to lead in water sustainability with the introduction of the PUREWater Westminster project. This innovative initiative will commence construction this winter at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, featuring advanced purification technologies such as membranes and UV light to convert treated wastewater into potable water. This project marks Maryland’s first foray into wastewater recycling for drinking purposes, following practices already established in drought-affected regions. As water scarcity and climate change increasingly impact the East Coast, this initiative exemplifies a crucial shift toward sustainable water management.
PUREWater Westminster will employ a comprehensive four-step purification process, including reverse osmosis and advanced filtration, to ensure water quality meets or surpasses drinking standards. With an estimated cost of $14 to $16 million, the facility aims to address longstanding water shortages exacerbated by droughts and population growth. Construction is set to begin in January, with the facility expected to be operational within 12 to 14 months. This project not only addresses local water challenges but also highlights a growing trend toward innovative water reuse solutions, positioning Westminster as a pioneer in sustainable water management practices.
