Ohio EPA Permit Clears Way for Construction of Raccoon Creek Wastewater Facility

LICKING COUNTY, Ohio — The Licking Regional Water District has received final approval from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for its Raccoon Creek Wastewater Treatment Center, a key step forward in preparing the region for responsible growth.

Issued through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, the permit authorizes the district to proceed with the construction and operation of a new wastewater treatment facility in St. Albans Township. The facility will discharge treated effluent to Moots Run in accordance with environmental standards set by the Ohio EPA.

The plant will begin with a treatment capacity of 3 million gallons per day and is designed to expand as demand increases. It is part of the district’s broader plan to respond to development demands along the State Route 161 corridor.

“This is an important moment for our region,” said LRWD Executive Director Jim Roberts. “This permit gives us the ability to keep pace with growth while protecting public health and maintaining strong environmental safeguards.”

Roberts said the project reflects years of planning and coordination with local and state partners.

“Our role in this area has been clearly defined through long-standing agreements and the 208 Plan,” Roberts said. “This facility allows us to deliver on those commitments with infrastructure that is built to last and ready to grow with the community.”

The Ohio EPA determined the project meets all applicable environmental standards, including water quality protections for the receiving stream. The permit includes limits on nutrients, solids, bacteria and other key measures to ensure safe and reliable operations.

The Raccoon Creek facility is a central part of the district’s 2024 master plan. A construction timeline will be announced following final design and bidding.

The LRWD provides water and wastewater services to residents and businesses across one of Ohio’s fastest-growing regions. The district focuses on reliable infrastructure, environmental responsibility, and strong partnerships with the communities it serves.

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