Construction of the new wastewater treatment plant, a vital infrastructure project for the Seminole community, is officially underway. The 24-month project began 60 days ago.

Residents may have noticed a large crane visible south of Seminole, rising above the treetops. This piece of equipment plays a critical role in the plant’s construction, from moving cement to positioning massive red iron beams and others structural components.

“The new wastewater treatment plant is a longterm investment in our community’s infrastructure,” said Public Works Director, Bryant Baker. “We’re pleased to report that the project is progressing smoothly, and we remain committed to its on-time completion.”

Once completed, this updated facility will improve water quality, accommodate future growth, and support environmental sustainability.

“With the help of our citizens, our mayor and city Council are making generational improvements. While the wastewater plant may not be glamorous, it is a critical component of a growing and thriving Seminole. With these improvements, Seminole will be ready for progress for decades to come,” said City Manager Steve Saxon.

In November 2021, voters approved the extension of a half-cent sales tax that was due to expire the following March to pay for the new plant.

The existing sewer plant, which was built in the 1940s, had been out of compliance with Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regulations for several years. It processes over 1.2 million gallons of wastewater per day.

The current plant is a trickling filter plant, one of only three left in the State of Oklahoma. Some of the equipment at the plant uses Mercury seals, which are banned from newer facilities.

The new plant is being constructed near the existing one on Lemon Lane, which is just south and east of downtown Seminole.

Above, a crane that is being utilized in the construction of Seminole’s new wastewater treatment plant towers above the tree line and can be seen for miles. (Staff photo by Bill Anderson). Right, a photo taken by a drone shows the plant construction site. (Image courtesy of the City of Seminole).