Gwinnett opens new sewage plant

Gwinnett County begins operating a new $277 million wastewater treatment plant this week.

The new Yellow River Water Reclamation Facility, off Tom Smith Road between Lilburn and Lawrenceville, will replace six older, smaller plants. The plants closing include one at the same site, plus the Big Haynes Creek, Jacks Creek, No Business Creek, Beaver Ruin and Jackson Creek plants.

County officials say the new plant can treat 22 million gallons per day and takes up less space than the 1970s technology it’s replacing. It will reduce the county’s costs for chemicals and personnel and reduce pollution in the Yellow River.