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Grand Rapids renames wastewater treatment plant

Posted at 9:07 AM, Dec 09, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-09 09:07:13-05

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) — Officials in Grand Rapids say a new name for the city’s wastewater treatment plant is a testament to the power of words.

The Grand Rapids City Commission on Tuesday approved changing the name of the Wastewater Treatment Facility to the Water Resource Recovery Facility. Officials say the new name better represents the plant’s growing focus on energy efficiency and other sustainability practices.

Mayor George Heartwell says in a statement that: “Words are powerful, and the new name recognizes Grand Rapids as a leader in preserving the environment.”

The plant already uses energy recovery to heat and cool an administration building. A solar power project is planned to provide renewable energy.

Built in 1930 and expanded over the years, the plant serves 11 communities within a 125-square-mile area of western Michigan. The plant is located at 1300 Market SW.