News --> January 10, 2008
Wayne County Facility Earns “Gold Award” for 2007

WAYNE COUNTY, MI — Wayne County’s Wastewater Treatment Facility in Wyandotte served 13 Downriver communities in 2007 without a water quality permit violation, earning the National Association of Clean Water Agencies’ prestigious “Gold Award.”

“Justin Verlander wasn’t the only one who pitched a no-hitter in 2007,” said County Executive Robert A. Ficano.  “Our hardworking team at the Department of Environment, and our outstanding staff at the Downriver Facility delivered 12 perfect months of cleaner water, better service, and more value for our residents.”

Wayne County’s Department of Environment runs Michigan’s second largest sewage treatment plant, serving 13 Downriver communities with a combined population over 200,000.

In 1989, Wayne County and its service communities were sued under the Clean Water Act for numerous permit violations, resulting in a Court Order
that mandated over $300 million in improvements.  In 2005, the Order was complied with and dismissed, and the communities are now investing an additional $40 million in voluntary plant improvements.

“The turnaround at the Downriver Facility has been remarkable,” said Ficano, “we’ve worked with our customers, made the investments, and are building on our successes.  This year’s Gold Award is the result of years of hard work, and we’re all winners with a cleaner environment.” 

For additional media inquiry contact
Vanessa Denha-Garmo at 313-213-5274.

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