Environmental experts are involved in every step of the Water Treatment Plant 4 (WTP4) building process. Specialists with expertise in hydrology, endangered species, plant biology regularly reviews plans and visits the construction site to ensure that strict environmental goals are being met.

Austin Water Utility will meet or exceed sustainability standards addressing water conservation, energy efficiency, and watershed protection. Additionally, Austin Water Utility will minimize the potential impacts to the adjacent Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.

Highlights of environmental goals for WTP4 and the transmission mains can be found in the Environmental Commissioning Document:

• Plant facilities will meet the LEED™ Silver rating from the United States Green Building Council.
• Rainwater will be collected for irrigation and to prevent runoff.
• Stormwater will be collected and treated in ponds using natural plants and bacteria.
• Austin Energy will install solar panels at various locations on the site.
• Invasive species of plants and animals on the site will be controlled.
• Outdoor lighting will be hooded; task lighting will only be on for specific tasks.
• Noise will be minimized through insulated buildings and innovative design.
• Endangered species and species of concern will be protected.
• Existing creeks and springs will be protected from the discharge of pollutants from construction sites.
• Environmentally-sensitive areas will be tunneled under to minimize environmental disturbance.

Pre-Construction Groundwater Assessment for Jollyville Transmission Main (22,383 kb)

Environmental Constraints Map

Environmental Monitoring Program

Final Transmission Main Environmental Commissioning Plan:

• Appendix A Plates
• Appendix B MOU
• Appendix C USFWS Permit
• Appendix D TM No 17
• Appendix E BCCP Appendix B
• Appendix F Karst Survey Protocol
• Appendix G Void Mitigation
• Appendix H EC Commitments