Riverhead Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion in St. John's

Official title: Phase 1 of the Riverhead Wastewater Treatment Facility: Secondary Treatment Expansion Project

Closed Environmental Assessment Environment & Climate Housing & Communities
St. John's is upgrading its main wastewater treatment plant. The project adds a fourth clarifier and prepares the site for future secondary treatment. When complete, the facility will handle 19% more wastewater daily.

Why This Matters

Live in St. John's? This plant treats your wastewater. The upgrade means cleaner water going back into the ocean and a system that can handle the city's growth. Construction will involve blasting and excavation near the site.

What Could Change

The primary treatment capacity will increase from 134,800 to 160,000 cubic metres per day. Site preparation for secondary treatment will begin, including clearing, blasting, and slope stabilization. New biological treatment processes will eventually improve effluent quality.

Key Issues

  • Environmental impacts of site preparation including blasting and excavation
  • Capacity expansion to meet long-term wastewater treatment needs

Indigenous Consultation

This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.