City of Medford Wastewater Improvements

Challenge

In Wisconsin, the City of Medford’s wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) was running up against a familiar challenge: aging infrastructure that drained both energy and dollars. Key systems like aeration and headworks were outdated, leading to costly inefficiencies and the risk of unexpected downtime. Recognizing the need for smarter, more reliable operations, the City set out to modernize its facility. But they didn’t just want a quick fix – they wanted a long-term partner who could help upgrade their systems, improve energy efficiency, and secure critical funding, all while keeping costs manageable for residents. 

Solution

The City selected SEH for its collaborative approach, which emphasized listening to the City’s goals and aligning technical improvements with the priorities of both residents and leaders.

Energy-efficient aeration system enhancements and improved headworks system

To enhance the WWTP’s energy performance and process control, the team provided design and construction-related services to upgrade the aeration system. Four existing centrifugal blowers were replaced with high-efficiency screw compressor blowers operating on variable frequency drives (VFD). These new blowers deliver air more precisely and efficiently to the aeration basins and aerobic digesters. The system also features upgraded diffusers, replacing coarse bubble models with membrane-style fine bubble diffusers to enhance oxygen transfer and reduce energy consumption.

Additionally, advanced sensors and controls now enable operators to regulate blower output based on dissolved oxygen or ammonium concentrations. This gives them the flexibility to respond to real-time treatment needs and further enhance performance.

The team also led the replacement of the WWTP’s headworks system to enhance safety, increase operational efficiency, and improve septage and hauled waste receiving. Throughout the process, a multidisciplinary approach guided facility planning, project design, and construction oversight, keeping the project on track and aligned with the City’s goals.

Project funding

This project was funded through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Clean Water Fund. SEH supported the City throughout the application and administration process, helping to secure a funding package that included principal forgiveness and low-interest financing. This approach significantly reduced the amount the City needed to borrow and, in turn, kept long-term debt service low. By minimizing upfront capital costs and spreading out repayment at favorable rates, the project limited the impact on utility ratepayers and avoided steep increases to monthly water bills. The outcome ensures that the most cost-effective options were pursued at every step, helping the City deliver essential infrastructure improvements while protecting residents from financial strain.

To support the improvements, SEH helped the City secure a total of 8 million in funding:

• 1 million dollars in Community Development Block Grant – Public Facilities funds
• 2.1 million dollars in principal forgiveness from the Clean Water Fund Loan Program
• 4.8 million dollars in low-interest loans from the same program

These combined resources allowed the City to modernize its wastewater treatment infrastructure without placing an undue financial burden on local taxpayers. The upgraded systems support long-term compliance, future population growth, and more sustainable operations.

This project reflects the City of Medford’s proactive investment in wastewater infrastructure. With updated systems and smart funding strategies, the City enhanced treatment performance, lowered energy use, and positioned its utilities for long-term sustainability.