Partnership saved millions of taxpayer dollars

 LEOMINSTER, MASS. — The city of Leominster and Veolia Water North America received a design-build recognition award from the Design-Build Institute of America, New England Region (DBIA). Leominster’s partnership with Veolia Water was recognized for its use of the design-build project delivery system in the construction of the city’s water filtration plant.

This 2.0 million gallon per day (mgd) water filtration plant was put online in 2011, six months ahead of schedule. It was completed significantly under budget, saving Leominster taxpayers more than $3.3 million since inception. Further, the partnership took special care to format the design of the plant to fit in with the residential community, including building architecture and landscaping that blends in with the community.

"We often hear bad news these days — well, here’s some good news: This Leominster city project is under budget and completed early," said Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarrella. "We have a sound water system for years to come, thanks to the hard work of Veolia Water and the staff and administration of the city’s water facility."

Leominster’s facilities have been operated as a partnership between the city and Veolia Water North America since 1983, making it one of the oldest partnerships in the nation. Working together, the partnership saves taxpayers more than $300,000 annually due to operations and maintenance efficiencies. They recently marked 25 years without a lost time accident, a safety milestone that few North American municipal water facilities have achieved, ranking the facility as one of the safest in New England.

"The Leominster design-build project is a great accomplishment for the city," said Keavin Nelson, president, Veolia Water North America-Eastern region. "In these difficult economic times, I can tell you that the Veolia Water staff is thrilled to be able to help Leominster taxpayers save money on top-notch water infrastructure, and look forward to many more successful years of environmental partnership with the city."

The award was formally presented to Pat LaPointe, director, Department of Public Works and Roger Brooks, business manager – Water & Sewer, Department of Public Works, at the DBIA Awards ceremony in Framingham, Mass.