The Northeast Water Treatment Plant became the Detroit water system’s third water treatment plant in 1956. The plant’s current pumping capacity is 300 million gallons per day and is one of five plants to provide water to the Great Lakes Water Authority’s customer base in Southeastern Michigan. Commercial Contracting Corporation was awarded a contract to be the General Contractor to replace the Flocculator and associated support systems.

Throughout the project, CCC’s team has to maintain a high level of coordination with GLWA staff to ensure the existing operations are not disturbed. CCC’s primary scope began with the demolition and removal of the existing flocculation system. We will then replace the previous system with a new direct-drive, variable speed paddle wheel flocculation system in all four basins. Included in our scope of work are the removal and replacement of a spiral staircase between levels with a new standard stair that also requires modifications to the structural concrete. Other structural and architectural improvements includes new hatches, grating systems, handrails, and painting.

Additional work includes North and South Drywells, Galleries replacing old equipment, installing new motor control centers, lighting, receptacles and running new power to the pumps and the sediment basins. Mechanical improvements for the basins include installing new drainage plumbing and water lines, installing new ventilation ductwork, louvers and grills, tuckpointing exterior masonry, doors and windows. CCC is self-performing the demolition and installation of the flocculation equipment, concrete – demolition and installation, and structural steel – installation of steel handrails, walkway platforms and stairs.