Chattanooga, Tennessee, known for its scenic beauty and growing urban landscape, is making remarkable strides in upgrading its sewer infrastructure. With a rising population and increasing demands on its wastewater systems, the city has prioritized innovative solutions to modernize and future-proof its sewer pump technology. From smart monitoring systems to energy-efficient upgrades, Chattanooga’s approach is transforming how wastewater is managed—not just for today, but for generations to come.
In this post, we’ll explore the key innovations in sewer pumps in Chattanooga and how they’re reshaping the region’s infrastructure.
1. Wet Weather Equalization Stations: Protecting Against Overflows
One of the most significant challenges facing Chattanooga’s sewer system is managing the surge of wastewater during periods of heavy rainfall. Historically, these conditions have led to sanitary sewer overflows, posing health and environmental risks.
To combat this, the city has launched the construction of two large-scale wet weather equalization (EQ) stations. These facilities, which will store approximately 10 million and 30 million gallons of excess wastewater respectively, act as buffers during peak flow events. Rather than overwhelming the treatment plants, this excess is temporarily stored and treated later when the system can handle it.
This innovation not only reduces the risk of overflows but also minimizes the chances of untreated wastewater reaching rivers and streams—a major environmental win for the region.
2. Smart Sewer Pumps with Real-Time Monitoring
The integration of smart technology into sewer systems is revolutionizing operations in Chattanooga. Sewer pump stations are being upgraded with real-time monitoring systems that provide data analytics to identify inefficiencies, track performance, and alert operators to maintenance needs before failures occur.
One notable example is the Citico Pump Station, where Specific Energy’s intelligent pump control systems have been implemented. These systems monitor the performance of each pump, detect operational anomalies, and optimize energy usage. Instead of relying on static schedules or manual adjustments, the system dynamically adjusts to current conditions, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
This proactive approach significantly reduces downtime, cuts operational costs, and allows for quicker responses to emergencies.
3. Upgrades at Moccasin Bend Wastewater Treatment Plant
At the core of Chattanooga’s sewer infrastructure is the Moccasin Bend Wastewater Treatment Plant (MBWWTP), which processes tens of millions of gallons of wastewater daily. The city has invested heavily in upgrading this facility, with a focus on improving its influent pump station and installing mechanical bar screens to better manage debris entering the system.
These upgrades are essential for boosting the plant’s capacity and reducing the wear and tear on pumps caused by large debris and solids. By enhancing pretreatment processes, Chattanooga ensures that the entire sewer system operates more smoothly and efficiently, extending the lifespan of critical components.
4. Low-Pressure Sewer Systems for Tough Terrain
Chattanooga’s hilly and rocky terrain poses unique challenges for traditional gravity-fed sewer systems. To ensure residents in these difficult areas receive reliable service, the city has begun implementing low-pressure sewer systems that use grinder pumps.
Grinder pumps grind solid waste into a slurry, which is then transported through small-diameter pressurized pipes to the main sewer lines. This technology allows for more flexible routing and is especially effective in areas where installing gravity-fed systems would be cost-prohibitive or logistically unfeasible.
Currently, around 350 homes are scheduled to receive these systems, offering a tailored solution to a complex infrastructure challenge.
5. Trenchless Rehabilitation Techniques
Maintaining over 1,200 miles of sewer lines is no small feat. To rehabilitate aging infrastructure without causing massive disruptions, Chattanooga is turning to trenchless technologies, particularly cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) methods.
This technique involves inserting a resin-saturated liner into the existing pipe, then curing it in place using heat or UV light. The result is a seamless, jointless pipe within the old one—restoring structural integrity without the need for digging up streets or disturbing neighborhoods.
These minimally invasive upgrades save time, reduce costs, and extend the life of the sewer network by decades.
6. Energy-Efficient Pumping Solutions
Sewer pump stations are major energy consumers in municipal wastewater systems. To reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs, Chattanooga is adopting energy-efficient technologies such as variable-frequency drives (VFDs) and predictive optimization systems.
VFDs adjust the speed of pumps based on real-time flow demand, preventing pumps from running at full speed unnecessarily. Combined with AI-based predictive software, these systems can forecast usage patterns and adjust operations for optimal energy use.
Initial implementations have shown substantial savings in electricity costs while enhancing system responsiveness and reliability.
7. Public Education and Community Involvement
Technology alone isn’t enough—Chattanooga also recognizes the importance of public awareness and community involvement in maintaining a healthy sewer system.
The city has launched educational initiatives to inform residents about best practices, such as avoiding flushing grease or non-degradable items. These outreach efforts are particularly important as new technologies are implemented, ensuring that the public understands their role in supporting sustainable infrastructure.
By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, Chattanooga increases the effectiveness and longevity of its sewer systems.
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Urban Infrastructure
Chattanooga, TN, is not just reacting to challenges in wastewater management—it’s leading with innovation. From real-time monitoring and advanced equalization systems to energy efficiency and terrain-specific solutions, the city is setting a high standard for sustainable, future-ready sewer infrastructure.
These innovations serve as a model for other municipalities facing similar challenges. By embracing technology, community partnerships, and forward-thinking design, Chattanooga is turning its sewer system into a shining example of modern municipal engineering.