Wayne County to Transfer Control of Downriver Sewage Disposal System to Local Operators

The Downriver Utility Wastewater Authority agreed to tentative plans to buy the system for $57.5 million.

Wayne County is transferring control of the Downriver Sewage Disposal System to local operators. The Downriver Utility Wastewater Authority (DUWA) has agreed to a tentative agreement to purchase the system for $57.5 million. James Canning is a spokesperson for Wayne County Executive Warren Evans. He says it’s a win-win situation for the county and the 13 Downriver communities.

“We’re really not in the business of doing wastewater treatment, and we thought since this community really wanted the ability to have local control of that system, it was worthwhile to try to make an agreement happen.

James Canning,  Spokesperson for Wayne County Executive Warren Evans

In a statement, DUWA Chairman Rick Sollars says the effort recognizes the “investment of more than $300 million by the Downriver Communities in recent years,” to upgrade the sewage system. Wayne County Executive Warren Evans said it was a mutually beneficial agreement that would strengthen the county’s cooperation with its communities. Officials say the deal may take another four months to be finalized.

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  • Eli Newman
    Eli Newman is a Reporter/Producer for 101.9 WDET, covering breaking news, politics and community affairs. His favorite Motown track is “It’s The Same Old Song” by the Four Tops.