SOMERSET RARITAN VALLEY SA AIR POLLUTION CONTROL SYSTEM UPGRADES

The Somerset Raritan Valley Sewerage Authority (SRVSA) recently completed wastewater treatment plant improvements that are being funded with approximately $11.4 million in loans from the NJ Water Bank, a joint low-rate funding program of the DEP and the NJ I-Bank. Total savings for this project are estimated to be $3.7 million over the 30-year term of the loan or 32% of the total project cost. In addition, this project created an estimated 137 direct construction jobs.  

The SRVSA has two sewage sludge incinerators. The project included the rehabilitation of Incinerator No. 2, constructed in 1990, and an upgrade of the air pollution control system. The rehabilitation of Incinerator No. 2 consisted of new primary, secondary and tertiary heat exchangers, a new mercury scrubber system and new associated instrumentation and electrical systems. Incinerator No. 1 was non-operational while repairs to Incinerator No. 2 were underway and will be re-evaluated for repair now that Incinerator No. 2 is back up and running. 

Recent USEPA regulations set strict limits for nine pollutants under section 129 of the Clean Air Act. To meet these new low emission limits, the SRVSA had to significantly upgrade their air pollution control equipment. The replacement of antiquated equipment enabled the SRVSA to continue reliable operation of the sludge incinerator facilities, comply with federal regulations and improve the efficiency at the plant. 

Dennis Sullivan, Mayor of Somerville Borough, one of the SRVSA's major customers, applauded the project: "Somerville is the county seat of Somerset County and has been a member of the SRVSA since its creation. This infrastructure project will enable Somerville Borough to successfully grow and ensure that demands on the Borough's sanitary sewer system are fully satisfied. Furthermore, this project will assist Somerville in maintaining compliance with all State and Local Laws." 

The project was designed by CDM Smith and constructed by Iron Hills Construction, Inc and Hankin Environmental Systems.

Pictures courtesy of SRVSA