A number of improvements that will enhance safety and performance were recently completed at the District, announced the Board of Commissioners.

• The old chlorination system, which aids in the treatment of sewage, was replaced with a system that uses sodium hypochlorite. While just as effective as chlorine -- the main ingredient in the old system -- sodium hypochlorite is much easier and safer to handle, said the District's Chief Operator Tom Rossetti. Following the installation, the local fire department toured the new facility and was briefed on the operation of the system.
  
  
• A permanent emergency generator was installed at the Highwood Road pump station. this will allow the station to continue functioning automatically in the event of a power outage.
  
  
• Underground fuel tanks at the District's treatment facility were replaced with two state-of-the-art tanks. Double-lined for environmental safety, the thousand-gallon replacements are equipped with an array of monitors that will ensure immediate detection of any leaks or ruptures, thereby avoiding sub-surface soil contamination.
  
  
• The District's grit chamber, which removes sand, dirt and solids from the sewage inflow, was refurbished. A smoothly-functioning grit chamber lengthens the life of the District's extensive pumping systems.
  
  
• Lastly, the treatment facility's Perth system was upgraded. This system collects the methane gas released from sludge during decomposition. The gas is then burned to heat the sludge to optimum treatment levels. The use of the Perth system increases the treatment facility's efficiency and economy. The old Perth device, worn from decades of use, was due for a replacement.