Corix will conduct the transfer of wastewater to the city’s plant.
The gist
Construction of the city’s wastewater treatment plant No. 3 began in August 2021 to accommodate Bastrop’s rapid growth. Despite delays, the plant is expected to begin operating in April.
The SpaceX deal will help pay for the $32.6 million plant, Bastrop City Manager Sylvia Carrillo said.
“This deal is exactly what the plant was built to accommodate,” Carrillo said. “We are proud to partner with such an exciting new member of our growing community.”
The background
The deal will replace SpaceX’s need to discharge 142,500 gallons of treated wastewater a day into the Colorado River as outlined in the company’s March 2023 Texas Commission on Environmental Quality permit request.
“[SpaceX] is thrilled that an agreement was reached. Being able to find a solution that benefits neighbors and promotes growth is a win for everyone,” SpaceX representative AB Ozdil said in the release. “We are excited to call Bastrop one of our new homes and are doing our best to be a good neighbor.”
Residents, ratepayers and city of Bastrop taxpayers are all “winners” in the agreement, Carrillo said in the release.
“Treating wastewater does not happen at a loss,” Carrillo said. “It is a profitable enterprise, and serving such a large customer will help keep rates low and the plant operating in tip-top shape for decades to come.”
