In 2022, Micron Technology, Inc. (Micron) announced plans to build four semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs) in Central New York. As one of the world’s largest semiconductor fabrication companies and the only U.S.-based manufacturer of memory, Micron produces components that power a wide range of devices, from consumer electronics to automobiles and industrial equipment. 

Water is crucial in various stages of the chip manufacturing process, and Micron estimates it could use up to 48 million gallons per day. Therefore, conveying and treating the industrial wastewater from Micron's operations is vital for both environmental and operational reasons.

Providing Sewer Service to White Pine Industrial Park

The White Pine Industrial Park is a 450+ acre site zoned for industrial use, perfectly situated along Route 31 and Caughdenoy Road in northern Onondaga County. With its ample size, location, and extensive utilities (rail, water, gas, electric, and telecom), it's an ideal spot for manufacturing and tech production. Getting public sewer service is crucial for the site to earn the "Shovel-Ready Certification" from New York State, a national standard that signals the site is ready for major investment. 

WEP's White Pine/Route 31 Municipal Sewer Expansion project will provide public sewer service to the White Pine Industrial Park and nearby areas along Route 31 and Caughdenoy Road in the Town of Clay. It includes building a pump station and two force mains, which will connect to the Oak Orchard Wastewater Treatment Plant. This sewer system will also pave the way for future development of adjacent properties. 

Upgrades to the Oak Orchard Wastewater Treatment Plant

WEP has planned major upgrades to the Oak Orchard Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Town of Clay, NY. The current plant is almost at full capacity, limiting economic growth in the area. This upgrade will boost the plant's capacity to handle more municipal wastewater, support future growth, and include new facilities for biosolids processing, industrial wastewater treatment, and reclaimed water supply. It's a crucial step for the development of the White Pine Business Park and other economic opportunities in the Oak Orchard WWTP service area.