Faced with a consent order to replace an outdated waterfront primary wastewater treatment facility, New Bedford used the development of a new wastewater treatment plant as an opportunity to turn a derelict site and former military facility into a waterfront community asset. CDM designed a 30-million-gallon-per-day wastewater treatment facility on only 30 acres of the site, converting 50 acres into Taber Park and opening a mile of shoreline along Buzzards Bay for public enjoyment.
Fully enclosed for odor and noise control, the plant is surrounded by naturalized berms and mounds to blend with the parklands. While the new treatment plant protects public health and water quality, visitors to adjacent Taber Park can enjoy walking trails, green space, the waterfront, a restored historic Civil War fort, community boating, summer camp, and an outdoor summer concert series. The project has boosted the local economy, residential and commercial property values, and recreational businesses.
CLIENT: City of New Bedford, Massachusetts
LOCATION: New Bedford, Massachusetts