From smart sewers to first-of-its-kind infrastructure: How KC Water and Jacobs are shaping Kansas City’s future
As urban populations grow—projected to reach 89% in the U.S. by 2050—cities face mounting challenges in upgrading aging infrastructure. In Kansas City, KC Water and Jacobs have collaborated for nearly 20 years to address these challenges, enhancing services for over 500,000 residents across a 300-square-mile area.
One recent project, the $6.5 million Middle Blue River I/I initiative, restored aging sewer systems in the historic Waldo neighborhood. Jacobs' design and construction services improved over 33,000 linear feet of sewer main and 300 manholes, reducing overflows and preserving local waterways. This project, part of KC Water’s Smart Sewer Program, earned the Kansas City Industrial Council’s 2024 Sustainability Award.
At the Blue River Wastewater Treatment Plant, Jacobs is helping KC Water implement a Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP)—the first in the U.S. Midwest. This facility treats 75 million gallons of wastewater daily and processes all KC Water’s biosolids. Additional initiatives include digital transformation efforts and the Smart Sewer Program’s innovative "Keep Out the Rain" project, targeting private stormwater connections.
Jacobs' Client Service Leader Shashi Kambhampati highlighted the partnership's impact: "KC Water’s trust enables us to deliver the best solutions, making Kansas City more connected and sustainable."
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