The new treatment process at OMO improves water quality by adding an advanced treatment process: post-filter granular activated carbon (GAC) contactors. The new treatment process will employ granular media filters similar to existing, but they will be followed by GAC contactors that have a superior ability to remove contaminants by a process called adsorption. GAC contactors are effective in removing taste and odor compounds and other compounds difficult to remove by conventional treatment processes.

The project will be completed in multiple phases over the next 10-15 years. The first facility is scheduled to be completed in 2027, and other major facilities will be completed in 2032. The final facilities will be completed in 2037.

MWS is taking extra measures to minimize construction noise: 

- Limit construction hours. 

- Limit hours of operation for route vehicles carrying heavy material. 

- Comply with local noise ordinances. 

- Require silencers, mufflers, etc on equipment. 

- No excessive idling of motorized equipment.

One of the project sustainability goals is to reduce light pollution during construction and at the finished site.  Distracting and intrusive lighting will be minimized during construction, and light sources that adversely  impact people, animals, businesses, and transportation activities will be avoided altogether.

MWS will do whatever it can to minimize impacts to traffic patterns. No portion of surrounding roadways will be closed or obstructed without obtaining proper permits, and alternate routes and detour signs will be implemented if a road closure is necessary. Where possible, local suppliers will be used to reduce interstate traffic.

Drinking water quality and supply will not be adversely affected by the project. Process improvements will be  constructed during operation of the existing water treatment process, and the existing process will not be affected.