A ribbon-cutting ceremony of Snohomish’s new wastewater pump station was held on Tuesday afternoon, September 13th. The purpose of the new pump is to prevent untreated water from spilling into the Snohomish River, especially durning times of heavy rainfall.
Three and a half miles of pipe were installed from downtown to the treatment plant near Highway 9 along First Street. The project was funded by a grant of $5.4 million secured by Rep. Hans Dunshee, along with a $1 million storm water grant from the state Department of Ecology. The city of Snohomish contributed $900,000 using a public trust fund loan. City Engineer Steve Schuller supervised the project for the city.
Mayor Karen hosted the event, opening with words attributed to Chief Sealth (Seattle), that speaks to the simple truth that we are all connected. “A healthy river means a healthy city,” Karen said.
Rep. Hans Dunshee gave the keynote address, reminding listeners of the number of jobs created by the project along with keeping the river clean.
A highlight of the ceremony was Steve Schuller’s enthusiastic telling the project’s features, including the story of three people stopping to ask if the pump station was the Vistor’s Center, confirming Steve’s goal to create an attractive building at the one of the entryways into the city.
