Loveland to Begin $46 Million Water Reclamation Facility Overhaul in January 2026
The City of Loveland will launch a $46 million upgrade to its Boise Avenue Water Reclamation Facility beginning in January 2026, with construction continuing through 2028. The bond-financed project will add nutrient-treatment capacity and new equipment to meet tightening state and federal water-quality standards.
The project is part of a 20-year infrastructure master plan the City Council adopted in 2024.
Low-flow water fixtures have increased the concentration of organic waste in wastewater, placing new demands on treatment. Upcoming state and federal regulations will require even lower nitrogen and phosphorus levels in treated discharge to the Big Thompson River.
"Add in aging infrastructure and upcoming state and federal regulations requiring even lower nitrogen and phosphorus levels in treated discharge to the Big Thompson River, and you can see why this project is essential," the city said.
The project will modify the Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) process and add treatment tanks. The city will install new ultraviolet disinfection equipment, replace aging aeration blowers, and rehabilitate concrete structures.
The city estimates the project cost at approximately $46 million, funded primarily through municipal bonds approved by City Council in 2025.
"Bonding lets us spread the cost over time instead of collecting it all upfront," the city said in a news release. "That means current ratepayers aren't left holding the entire bill on day one, and future users who will also benefit share costs through their rates. Strategic planning and bonding help keep rate changes steadier and more predictable."
Sewer rates follow an annual cycle in Loveland. The Loveland Utilities Commission proposes rates in September, City Council votes in October, rates are published in November, and changes take effect January 1. No official documents specify how the $46 million project will affect individual sewer bills.
Starting spring 2026, a 100-foot tower crane and 225-foot concrete BNR tank will dominate the site. The work zone will include temporary fencing, concrete barriers, dirt-hauling trucks, and occasional traffic flaggers along South Boise Avenue.
The facility treats wastewater and returns it to the Big Thompson River cleaner than what naturally occurs upstream, meeting state and federal regulations.