BCAT News

Burlington’s Mill Pond Reservoir is undergoing a $15 million project to install PFAS filters as a result of new regulations in acceptable PFAS levels by MassDEP. Once the filters are installed the water source is set to have non-detectable PFAS levels. 

Having coordinated several moving parts for the project like pipework, pumps and filters the plan has hit a snag due to weather. Initially the PFAS filters were to be operational by the end of February, beginning of March. DPW Director Brian White explained the delay. 

“The roofing system has been delayed due to the number of days that it has rained. The adhesive system that’s required to install the roof has to have dry weather,” said White. “That’s been the main driver in the delay.”  

The contractor believes it will set project completion to the end of March, beginning of April and has started working weekends since the delay was known. 

“We know how pressing this project is,” said White. “We’re working with the contractor to expedite everything to speed it up and minimize the delay.”

The DPW is hoping for no further delays with the PFAS filter project. 

Another piece of Burlington’s water supply is the MWRA connection. Within the last few weeks a 24 inch pipe was installed in Lexington, tested for bacteria and pressure and is now online.

“A good portion of the pipework will eventually allow us to increase our capacity through the MWRA to 3 ½ million gallons per day, is done. The remaining 1,500 feet or so will resume once the winter moratorium is lifted and we can start digging in the road again.”

A future phase of the MWRA connection plans to increase Burlington’s water to 6 ½ million gallons per day.

“That should provide us with enough water if anything were to happen to Mill Pond or the town decides to close down Mill Pond. The MWRA connection would service the whole town,” White said. 

With the time and effort that goes into bringing this precious natural resource to Burlington it is up to businesses and residents to help sustainably manage water use.