The Knoxville Wastewater Reclamation Department continues its efforts to keep rainwater out of its treatment facility. The Department of Natural Resources has expressed concern that volume flows of recent years would require a new plant.

Superintendent Pat Murphy tells KNIA/KRLS News that rather than upgrade the current facility, the city has been reducing the amount of rainwater that goes into it unnecessarily, primarily water from homes during significant rains. Part of this process is home system inspection for inflow and infiltration. Residents in the southeastern part of Knoxville have recently received letters requesting they call to make appointments for the inspections to take place. Murphy says their work so far has significantly reduced inflow to the plant, meaning an upgrade will not have to be completed immediately, at a cost savings of at least $1.5 million.