On Monday, September 29, 2025, the City of Kalamazoo celebrated the 70th anniversary of its Water Reclamation Plant with a community event and ribbon-cutting for a $26 million upgrade completed in May. The project added new disc filters—similar to oversized Brita filters—that replace a 40-year-old system and improve the treatment of 27 million gallons of wastewater daily before release into the Kalamazoo River. The celebration featured remarks from Mike Smith, Kalamazoo’s Communications Manager; Deputy City Manager David Marquardt; Mayor David Anderson; and keynote speaker Dr. Doug McLaughlin, Executive Director of the Kalamazoo River Watershed Council. Public Services Director James Baker was also recognized for his leadership. Speakers reflected on the history of wastewater treatment, environmental progress, and how such investments benefit the community by protecting public health, supporting local industry, and preserving the natural environment. The event concluded with a ribbon cutting and facility tours.
