BOISE – The City of Boise is indefinitely its industrial water recycling project planned for Southeast Boise. Rising construction and labor costs, which in some cases have more than doubled nationally and locally, have significantly increased the estimated cost of the project. In a continued effort to tighten budgets and maintain affordable rates, city leaders have determined that the water recycling project is not financially feasible at this time.
Water recycling takes used water and treats it to a high level to be used again, instead of going to waste. Recycled water remains part of the city’s long-term resilience planning to protect water supply and prepare for climate change, drought and population growth.
“Pausing this recycled water project is disappointing for our team and our community, who continue to show their support for protecting our local water resources,” said Boise Public Works Director Steve Burgos. “We're focused on keeping our rates affordable while continuing to invest in keeping our city and the Boise River clean, safe and healthy.”
The industrial water recycling project was designed to treat and purify used water from businesses and industries so it could be reused or returned to our local groundwater supply. The city has made progress on planning and design but had not yet started construction when they decided to pause the project.
The city is reviewing current plans and evaluating alternative approaches to strengthen Boise’s long-term water resilience while maintaining reliable, affordable service for residents.
