The City of Clarion has begun construction of a new reverse osmosis water treatment facility. Anticipated to be completed in August 2025, the water treatment facility aims to improve water quality and provide softened water to households, businesses, and the greater community.
Recognizing the pressing need for an upgrade, Clint Middleton, City Administrator for the City of Clarion, emphasized the significance of this project. “The upgrade to a state-of-the-art water treatment facility is much needed as we are still utilizing portions of the City Water Works dating back to 1935,” he said. “The new facility will serve as a vital upgrade without imposing rates other than normal annual percent increases.”
The push for water quality improvements emerged nearly a decade ago. In 2018, the City enlisted ISG, an architecture, engineering, environmental, and planning firm to develop a preliminary engineering report that outlined a comprehensive plan for Clarion’s future water infrastructure.
After submitting the report, the project team began design and engineering in 2021. Construction of the facility began in May 2023 and is funded by a $600,000 Community Development Block Grant, a $7 million U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development low-interest loan, and a $3.3 million Rural Water Financing Agency loan.
Water/Wastewater Engineer at ISG Emily Brinkman, PE described the enthusiasm for the collaboration between the City and ISG. “We are thrilled to have partnered with the City to make a tangible difference in the community,” she said. “This project is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do as engineers, designers, and water professionals. These community improvements have a day-to-day impact on people’s lives by providing safe water for Iowans.”
With the construction of the new water treatment facility underway, Clarion residents look forward to a safer and reliable water supply, promoting well-being and quality of life. This milestone marks a significant step in securing a reliable and sustainable future for Clarion.
