Mill City Wastewater Pollution Control Facility Update

April 23, 2025

A new wastewater treatment facility in Mill City is about to move one step closer to reality. The new facility will create a variety of benefits for the City and community members. It will replace an aging facility that no longer meets state requirements. It will use modern treatment methods that will reduce impacts on the environment and lead to a healthier Santiam River. It also will increase future opportunities for growth in the region and improve the overall economic health of the North Santiam Canyon area. The project is critical for economic recovery, community growth, and the protection of our water resources.

When will Construction Begin?

Construction of the new facility is expected to start in late May or early June. Initial activities will include clearing vegetation and generally preparing the site for grading and other initial construction activities. Ultimately, construction of the facility will be completed by December 31, 2026. It will include construction of the new facility and rerouting and reconstruction of Fairview Street which will go around and provide access to the new plant. The County and its contractors will provide regular updates about upcoming construction activities as the project proceeds.

How will I be Impacted if I Live in Mill City?

Most residents will see few to no impacts. Construction will be confined to the wastewater treatment facility site and will not impact wastewater collection lines for existing homes. Given the location of the new facility, most residents will not experience traffic or other impacts. However, people who live on portions of Fairview Street or Kingwood Avenue or who live relatively close to the new facility will see some impacts, including the following:

·         A portion of Fairview Street will be closed to through traffic for an extended period of time because it will be rerouted and reconstructed in the vicinity of the wastewater facility. As a result, people driving to some locations in the area will need to use alternative routes. However, the road will continue to be open to local traffic so most nearby residents will be able to use the road to access their homes or businesses in the area. See the accompanying map for the location of anticipated road closures and/or detours.

·         Construction activities, such as rock crushing, will create some noise and dust. The project will adhere to local noise ordinance restrictions, as will other construction activities. Some dust will be created by this or other activities. However, dust impacts are anticipated to be minor and the contractors will minimize these impacts to the extent possible. Construction activities are expected to be limited to 7 am to 5 pm on any given day.

·         Construction activity will include truck traffic to the site. On most days, traffic will be relatively light (two to three deliveries of equipment or supplies per day). During peak construction periods, about 15-20 trucks may need to access the site (e.g., to pour concrete).

The County and its contractors will be sensitive to these impacts on residents and will minimize or mitigate them when possible. They also will continue to communicate with neighbors about potential impacts throughout the project.

Who Should I Contact if I have Questions or Complaints and to Stay Informed?

If you have any questions about the project or experience any significant impacts during the wastewater facility construction, please contact one of the following people for more information or to address your complaint:

Contracting Agency

Marion County Public Works, Salem, OR

Project Manager: Chris Einmo, P.E., ceinmo@co.marion.or.us

(503) 588-5036

Construction Manager & General Contractor

Slayden Constructors, Inc., Salem, OR

Ryan Imel, Slayden.inquiries@mwhconstructors.com

(503) 769-1969

The NSSA website www.northsantiamsewer.net  will provide updates on the status of the project, including upcoming construction activities, as the project moves forward.[MH1] 

Does this Project Include any Construction Activities in Gates

No. Activities are being focused on the construction of the treatment facility in Mill City which will collect and treat wastewater from both Mill City and Gates. Once the treatment facility and force main are constructed, attention will turn to construction of the Gates collection system.