The City of Saint John is moving forward with significant infrastructure improvements at the Millidgeville Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF). Located at 700 Woodward Avenue, the facility will receive a modern Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection System designed to enhance the efficiency of the water treatment process.

Project Overview and Temporary Bypass

To facilitate the installation of the new equipment, the City must temporarily redirect effluent flows to bypass the existing UV treatment area. This isolation allows crews to safely modify the structure and install the upgraded system.

While the UV disinfection stage is offline, incoming wastewater will continue to undergo all other established treatment processes, including:

• Mechanical Screening
• Aerated grit removal
• Primary Clarification
• Biological treatment (activated biofilter process)
• Secondary Clarification
• Sludge Thickening and Dewatering

Timeline and Regulatory Compliance

The City anticipates the bypass will last approximately four months during the summer of 2026. Under current provincial and federal approvals, the UV system typically operates annually from May 1st to October 31st.

To proceed with the work, the City is submitting a Temporary Bypass Authorization permit application to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). This process requires the City to detail the discharge point, estimated wastewater volumes, and the duration of the bypass. Throughout the construction phase, staff will rigorously sample, test, and report effluent quality and quantity to regulatory authorities to ensure transparency and safety.

Long-Term Benefits

These upgrades represent a proactive step for Saint John’s water infrastructure. The new UV disinfection system will extend the service life of the facility and improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, the design aims to prevent future damage to the UV system caused by flooding, ensuring the facility consistently meets regulatory compliance standards.

For residents with questions or concerns regarding this project, the City has provided contact channels via email at service@saintjohn.ca or by phone at (506) 658-4455.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the bypass necessary?

The bypass allows construction crews to isolate the existing UV treatment area to safely install the new system. Without redirecting the flow, it would be impossible to complete the necessary structural modifications and equipment installation.

Will all wastewater treatment stop during construction?

No. Only the final UV disinfection stage is being bypassed. The wastewater will still go through mechanical screening, grit removal, clarification, biological treatment, and sludge thickening.

When will the upgrades take place?

The work is planned for the summer of 2026 and is expected to take approximately four months to complete.

How does the City ensure safety during this period?

The City is applying for a Temporary Bypass Authorization from federal regulators. This permit requires strict monitoring, including continuous sampling and testing of the effluent to report quality and quantity to the authorities.