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Jefferson Today
By the People, for the People
Jefferson Wastewater Treatment Plant Completes Multi-Year Renovation
City approves final payment and accepts certificate of completion for $17.5 million project
Mar. 20, 2026 at 3:28pm
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The city of Jefferson, Iowa has completed a major renovation project at its Wastewater Treatment Plant, approving the final $183,945 payment to the construction firm Shank Constructors and accepting the certificate of completion for the $17.5 million project. The multi-year effort was driven by new discharge requirements from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and included upgrades to the treatment process to remove phosphorus and other contaminants.
Why it matters
The completion of this project ensures the Jefferson Wastewater Treatment Plant can meet new environmental regulations and operate efficiently for the next 20 years, supporting the city's growth and environmental sustainability efforts.
The details
The project involved several key upgrades to the treatment plant, including the addition of new treatment processes to remove phosphorus and other contaminants. The original $17.5 million contract saw less than $1 million in change orders, which city officials say is a relatively low percentage for a project of this scale. The newly renovated facility is expected to serve the city for at least the next two decades.
- The project originally started three years ago under former City Administrator Mike Palmer.
- The Jefferson City Council approved the final $183,945 payment and accepted the certificate of completion at their most recent meeting.
- A ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Wastewater Treatment Plant was held last September.
The players
Mike Palmer
Former City Administrator of Jefferson, who initiated the Wastewater Treatment Plant renovation project.
Scott Peterson
Current City Administrator of Jefferson, who oversaw the completion of the project.
Shank Constructors
The construction firm that was awarded the $17.5 million contract to renovate the Jefferson Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
The state agency that set new discharge requirements, prompting the need for the treatment plant upgrades.
What they’re saying
“They added a couple of new types of treatment and it has to do with getting rid of phosphorus and being able to get rid of a couple of other contaminants. So they did change the process down there, as well as looking for ways to increase some efficiencies and help us with our sludge applications. So, the long arduous process is over.”
— Scott Peterson, City Administrator
What’s next
The newly renovated Wastewater Treatment Plant is expected to serve the city of Jefferson for at least the next 20 years, meeting new environmental regulations and supporting the community's growth.
The takeaway
This multi-year, $17.5 million renovation project demonstrates Jefferson's commitment to modernizing its critical infrastructure and meeting environmental standards, ensuring the city can continue to grow and thrive in a sustainable manner.
