Small towns embody a unique charm that is cherished by residents and visitors alike. These close-knit communities, with their historic main streets and friendly neighbors, offer a sense of tranquility that is increasingly rare in our fast-paced world. However, as small towns grow and evolve, their infrastructure must adapt.
Lamp Rynearson was hired by Camden Point, Missouri to design a centralized sanitary sewer collection system and wastewater treatment facility that will improve the health and well-being of the city’s residents. Below are photos from the Groundbreaking Event on December 18, 2023:
Camden Point is home to about 600 residents and relied solely on individual septic systems to support its wastewater needs. The size of the properties within the City were not large enough for proper operation of septic systems. Poor maintenance and improper conditions led to overflow into drainage ditches and unsanitary conditions. The local elementary school was dealing with overflow into grass lots being used during recess and considered relocating from Camden Point to improve the student’s health and safety.
The lack of a centralized wastewater system creates negative effects on the health and quality of life for residents. The development of this system was the result of over 30 years of collaboration with the City, but did not come without challenges. The project included significant funding obstacles for the City to provide connections to 200 households while creating an affordable monthly sewer rate. With the assistance of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and Congressman Sam Graves, the City was able to receive USDA, CDBG and congressional earmarks to make this project a reality.
The sanitary sewer collection system and wastewater treatment facility are anticipated to be operational in early 2025. It will include over 56,000 linear feet of collection system lines and a treatment process that will meet current and future discharge regulations. A cleaner and modernized sewer and wastewater system opens the door for development and growth of the City. It is also a win for the environment when we can install centralized wastewater systems in communities instead of relying on failing individual septic systems.
We are excited to be a part of this community changing project. We look forward to watching Camden Point thrive!
Project Challenges and Innovation.
The City installed a low-pressure sewer system which allowed sewer lines to be built shallower, resulting in reduced costs.
The provision of several grants and low interest loans helped drastically reduce the financial impact
- The City received a wastewater treatment facility that was primarily underground which significantly reduced odors and produced a more aesthetically pleasing site.
- Trenchless construction was used for sewer pipe installation reducing impacts to residents
Watch this!
Watch a timelapse of the construction of the wastewater treatment facility- from ground breaking to May 2024!
