By 1808Delaware
The Village of Galena has earned statewide praise for its new wastewater treatment plant, bringing home the “Facility Image Award” from the Southeast Section of the Ohio Water Environment Association (SEOWEA). The honor, announced at the village’s August 2025 council meeting, highlights how the facility blends modern technology with the community’s historic charm.
A Facility Rooted in Both Innovation and History
Located at 188 Harrison Street, the Galena Wastewater Treatment Plant is more than just a utility. It was designed to resemble a 19th-century grist mill, complete with a functioning water wheel that helps oxygenate the plant’s effluent. This feature ties the building to Galena’s past while performing an essential environmental role.
Inside, the facility runs on advanced membrane bioreactor technology paired with UV disinfection. The result is water that exceeds quality standards, often testing at zero biochemical oxygen demand and zero suspended solids. Built on a compact site, the plant also has capacity for future expansion to support the region’s growth.
Why the Award Matters
The SEOWEA Facility Image Award is reserved for treatment plants that do more than manage wastewater. It recognizes facilities that enhance a community’s public image through thoughtful design, landscaping, and innovative features. Galena stood out for marrying environmental performance with design choices that reflect the village’s architectural heritage.
Village officials noted that the award is a testament to Galena’s commitment to building infrastructure that serves practical needs while also respecting community character.
A Model for Public Works
By linking cutting-edge environmental practices with a look that honors its 1800s legacy, Galena’s wastewater plant has become a model for how infrastructure can serve both people and place. The award not only recognizes the technical achievements of the facility but also affirms the village’s belief that progress and history can move forward together.
Photo: Village of Galena
