Site work and new construction of a water / sewer project in Joppatowne, Maryland. Working plans call for the construction of a water / sewer project; and for site work for a water / sewer project.

Project Description: The project involves the design and construction of treatment systems to address PFOS and PFOA levels at the Lakeside Vista Water Treatment Plant (WTP), in Joppa, Maryland. The three active wells sourcing the water exceed the EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 4 parts per trillion (ppt). The scope of work includes installing new Granular Activated Carbon (GACs) units, a prefabricated building to house the new GAC units, along with necessary heating, lighting, and other appurtenances. Serving approximately 82 residential customers, these upgrades will ensure the WTP complies with EPA standards and provides safe drinking water for the community. Maryland Water Services Inc. has applied for financial assistance from the Maryland Department of the Environment's State Revolving Fund program for this project as described above. In accordance with requirements for complying with State Environmental Review Procedures (SERP) under COMAR 26.03.11 for such assistance, the Department has reviewed the applicant's request for a Categorical Exclusion from a comprehensive environmental review under SERP. The Department has determined that the proposed project qualifies for a Categorical Exclusion pursuant to COMAR 26.03.11.04 because the project consists of new ancillary facilities that do not increase the capacity of the existing facility. This determination was based on careful review of supporting documentation provided by the applicant and other resources available to the Department. In concert with this preliminary determination, MDE has also found the project to be consistent with the Maryland Economic Growth, Resource Protection, and Planning Policy in accordance with Executive Order 01.01.1992.27, and Maryland's Smart Growth and Neighborhood Conservation Policy, in accordance with Executive Order 01.01.1998.04. As a result of the above determination, the applicant will not need to prepare and/or finalize an Environmental Information Document, and the Department is prepared to approve the applicant's request for financial assistance without further environmental review. Comments supporting or disagreeing with this preliminary decision may be submitted for consideration by writing to: Sunita Boyle, P.E., Division Chief Region II Project Management Division Engineering and Capital Projects Program Water and Science Administration Maryland Department of the Environment 1800 Washington Boulevard Baltimore MD 21230-1708 After evaluating any comments received, the Department will make a final decision no sooner than 20 calendar days from the date of this notice. No administrative action will be taken with respect to this proposal during this timeframe. The method of Contractor Selection has not been Determined at this time.