Public Notice: Lancaster Wastewater Treatment Facility Update

The Lancaster Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF), also commonly referred to as the Lancaster Lagoon, is located in West Saint John between Highway 1 and Sand Cove Road. Saint John Water has commenced construction of the upgrades to the aeration system at the Lancaster WWTF, which will improve the efficiency of the treatment process at the facility.

To allow for the installation of the new aeration system, a temporary bypass will be established to redirect incoming wastewater away from the aeration treatment pond to the existing settling pond within the wastewater treatment facility. The wastewater will continue to be screened, and the settling pond will continue to provide treatment of the incoming wastewater at a reduced level compared to when the treatment facility is in full operation.

Saint John Water is regulated by the Province of New Brunswick, Department of Environment and Local Government, as well as Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Saint John Water submitted a temporary bypass authorization application to ECCC in advance of completing this work. As part of the approval process, Saint John Water is required to provide details of the planned work and an overview of the methods of communication to advise the public. The approval outlines the discharge point, the estimated volume of wastewater and the estimated duration of the temporary bypass period. Throughout the construction period, Saint John Water is required to continue to sample, test and report effluent quality and quantity to regulatory authorities.

The temporary bypass will occur for approximately three months, with a planned start date of June 20th, 2025, and an estimated completion date of September 20th, 2025. Once the new aeration system is installed and operational, incoming wastewater flow will be directed back to the aeration pond for regular operation. The new aeration system will extend the service life of the Lancaster WWTF and ensure the operation of the facility continues to meet regulatory compliance.

Residents should be aware of the potential for increased odour throughout the duration of the project (which is a result of the sludge removal from the aeration cells). Understanding that wastewater is being released at a reduced treatment level, Saint John Water advises that people and pets minimize recreational activities in the water around the outlet of Manawagonish Creek, as well as Manawagonish Cove.

This work will be completed in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the Temporary Bypass Authorization approval received from Saint John Water’s regulators. If you have any questions or concerns about this project, please contact service@saintjohn.ca or (506) 658-4455.