Wastewater System Improvement Update

The City of Runaway Bay has entered the next phase of major improvements to our Wastewater System. Over the coming weeks, residents will notice increased activity around town as engineers and crews evaluate the system and begin preparing the groundwork for upcoming upgrades.

To keep the process efficient and properly sequenced, the engineering firm Freese and Nichols (FNI) is completing a full review of the system. This includes the Wastewater Treatment Plant, multiple lift stations, and major piping throughout the city. The City is also finalizing an inventory of equipment and documenting current conditions to ensure no detail is overlooked. The City formed a Wastewater Committee consisting of Roddy Boston (City Wastewater Director), Barry Schimpf (Runaway Bay Resident/Engineer), Herman White (Mayor) Steve Reynolds (Police Chief), Richards Griffin (City Council Member/Engineer) and Ryan Hallingan (Water Superintendent) to oversee this process.

Why This Work Matters

Like many growing communities, Runaway Bay has experienced increasing demands on its wastewater system over the years. Heavy rainfall events, aging infrastructure, and documented system conditions have highlighted the need for focused improvements. This work will help protect our watershed, support responsible growth, and strengthen our overall infrastructure for the future.

Easement Documentation

As part of this effort, the City has obtained the necessary easement documentation related to wastewater infrastructure located on or near private property. These easements ensure engineers and contractors have the proper access needed for construction, maintenance, and long-term system reliability. Updated easements are also required by state regulators before certain improvements can move forward and grants released.

Priority Projects

To close ongoing violations with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the following projects will be addressed first:

• Table 1: WWTP Project No. 1 - Package Plant Rehabilitation

• Table 2: WWTP Project No. 2 - Chlorine Building Improvements

• Table 4: WWTP Project No. 4 - Generator Rehabilitation

• Table 10: Jim Walters Lift Station - Lift Station Improvements

• Table 11: Jim Walters Lift Station - 12-inch Gravity Main Replacement

• Table 12: Port O’ Call South Lift Station - Lift Station Improvements

Once these projects are underway, upgrading the SCADA system (which manages real-time monitoring and controls) will be the next major priority.

What Residents Can Expect Next

Over the coming weeks, residents may see crews working in various parts of the city as assessments and early preparation begin. Here’s what’s happening next:

• The City and FNI will identify which tasks can be completed by City crews and which will require outside contractors.

• Resource planning will begin, including labor and materials, especially for grant-funded projects that must follow specific purchasing rules.

• Oncor has been notified of projected power needs, and FNI is finalizing the design plans required before construction begins.

We will continue sharing updates as key milestones are reached so residents can stay informed.