Greensboro Approved $260 Million for PFAS Water Treatment
The city council authorized funds to remove synthetic chemicals from local water sources by 2029.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Chemistry
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The Greensboro City Council has approved a $260 million contract with The Haskell Company to install advanced PFAS removal technology at the Mitchell Water Treatment Plant. This project addresses the presence of synthetic forever chemicals detected in local water sources, including Lake Brandt and Lake Townsend.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to safeguard public health by reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals that research has linked to cancer and reproductive issues. This significant infrastructure investment is intended to reach near non-detect levels for these contaminants in the city's drinking supply.
The treatment process utilizes large concrete basins filled with 15 feet of activated carbon. Water is filtered through this material to remove chemicals from the system, with all upgrades currently scheduled for completion by 2029.
The players
Greensboro City Council
This is the primary governing body responsible for legislative decisions and budgetary approvals within the city of Greensboro.
The Haskell Company
This is an architectural, engineering, and construction firm contracted by the city to manage the water treatment plant upgrades.
The details
The city plan involves upgrades to both the Mitchell and Townsend Water Treatment Plants to combat the systemic presence of PFAS. These chemicals, which have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s, were identified in local water sources after city-wide testing.
Timeline
1940s: Industry and consumer products began using PFAS.
October 7, 2026: City Council approved the $260 million contract for treatment upgrades.
2029: Facility improvements are expected to be completed.
Deeper Dive
The upgrade aligns with the growing national compliance requirements established by the EPA's National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS. This investment represents a shift toward advanced filtration technology as municipalities move to meet stricter water safety standards.
Residents will benefit from cleaner drinking water as the filtration technology works to remove contaminants to near non-detect levels. These long-term infrastructure improvements ensure the city meets safety standards, reducing potential future health risks for the local community.
The takeaway
The city is making a massive financial commitment to ensure long-term water safety through physical carbon-based filtration. Residents should note that while the project is underway, the city is actively working to minimize the presence of legacy chemicals in the water supply.
Further reading
Learn more about local scientific efforts at the Chemistry section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WHQR.
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