Friday, August 15, 2025
The Region of Waterloo’s Elmira wastewater treatment plant has won an award for technology upgrades that use less energy and produce cleaner air and water.
The Platinum Award of Merit from the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies (ACEC) – Grand River Chapter recognizes local projects that show innovation, excellence, and a strong, positive impact on the community.
“We are proud to see the Elmira wastewater treatment plant upgrades recognized for their innovative approach,” said Karen Redman, Regional Chair. “This project highlights how leadership, collaboration, and smart investments in infrastructure can create lasting benefits for our environment and residents alike.”
“This award shows how we can build smarter, more sustainable infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing communities while protecting the environment,” said Colleen James, Chair of the Sustainability, Infrastructure and Development Committee. “Thank you to everyone who helped make this project a success.”
With Elmira’s wastewater treatment plant facing pressure from a rising population, industrial expansion, and climate change impacts, these improvements restore capacity, support future growth, and protect the natural environment.
The sustainable technology helps the plant treat water more effectively, reducing the amount of pollution entering Canagagigue Creek and the Grand River, two important local waterways.
As part of this project, the Region also studied how to better understand how certain greenhouse gases are created during wastewater treatment. The results will help guide future decisions and reduce the plant’s environmental impact even more.
The project was managed by Jeff Medd from the Region’s Design and Construction team, with consultants from Jacobs Engineering Group.
