Round Rock approved a contract with Austin-based construction company Prota to strengthen its water reuse system at a meeting Feb. 27. The $2.7 million project will add a dual electric feed and additional pumps to the system.

The gist

The project will upgrade the single electric utility feed to a dual feed, which will increase the electrical power supply used to operate the pump station. The station will also receive another transport pump to get the reuse water to the tank, as well as an additional high-service pump to push the water out into the system.

Round Rock utilizes the Brushy Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant for its water reuse program. The water reuse facility requires these additions due to growth, new uses and heavier reliance, according to city officials.

“[It's] really a good system that we're continuing to expand," Director of Utilities Michael Thane said at the meeting. "This contract tonight will cover some additions to that—some resiliency."


Some context

Round Rock has completed several water reuse projects since 1998 that help deliver reuse water to the east and northeast side of the city, with plans to expand the scope of water reuse by the end of the year, according to city documents.

Reuse water saves a significant amount of money by reducing irrigation and process water expenses, with unlimited and unrestricted supply even during droughts. It conserves valuable raw water, delays major capital expenditures and supports economic growth by providing affordable, non-potable water for industries and large users, including Kalahari Resorts & Conventions and Austin Community College.