Arlington Re-Gen Is Underway

Early construction on Arlington Re-Gen officially began in December 2025, with visible activities beginning this month. This marks the start of a once-in-a-generation investment in Arlington’s wastewater system.

This multi-year program will modernize the Water Pollution Control Plant’s solids handling facilities, enabling more efficient processing and long-term resource recovery while maintaining uninterrupted service and minimizing impacts to surrounding neighborhoods.

All construction activities are carefully planned and monitored to ensure uninterrupted plant operations and minimal community impacts.

Read the full news release.

Where the Work is Happening

All work will take place within the Water Pollution Control Plant’s fenced boundaries. The Plant will remain fully operational throughout construction, with no interruptions to wastewater treatment services.

Google Earth aerial view of the Water Pollution Control Plant

Schedule

Re-Gen construction will roll out in phases over several years.

Early Work Package (2025–2026)	Main Work Package (2027–2031)	Commissioning & Startup (2031)
Site preparation Utility relocations Select building demolitions Foundation work for future treatment systems	New facilities A modern, resource-recovery-focused treatment process	System testing Phased startup to ensure performance, safety, and reliability

Most construction activity will occur during approved daytime hours, with work ramping up gradually throughout 2026. As construction progresses, neighbors may notice increased on-site activity, including equipment movement and material deliveries. Occasional overnight or weekend work may be approved on a case-by-case basis.

Traffic Impacts

No street closures are anticipated during the Early Work Package. Construction truck traffic will be limited and managed as vehicles enter and exit the site. No construction staff parking is permitted in surrounding neighborhoods.

Learn more about what to expect during Re-Gen construction.

Celebrating 100 Years of Arlington Water

Historical photo of parade float that says Arlington County Water Department

Arlington County Water Department float for the Water Carnival, November 1927 (Photo courtesy of Arlington Public Library)

This year, Arlington County celebrates 100 years of public water service, a milestone that reflects a century of investment in public health, environmental protection, and community wellbeing.

Throughout the year, this newsletter will spotlight moments from Arlington’s water history and show how today’s investments, including Arlington Re-Gen, are shaping the next 100 years.

Group photo of Water Pollution Control Plant employees, with one holding a trophy.

Arlington Water Pollution Control Plant staff at the Arlington History Museum with the trophy awarded to the winner of the 1927 Water Carnival Float Competition.

About the Program

By recovering renewable resources from wastewater, Re-Gen will advance more sustainable outcomes for Arlington. The Re-Gen program will:

Produce Class A biosolids and renewable natural gas

Reduce the Plant’s solids hauling truck traffic by half and eliminate deliveries of lime (a chemical compound typically used in wastewater treatment).