The City of Lawrence is proud to once again join elected officials, water utilities, community leaders, educators, businesses, and citizens from across the nation in participating in the ninth annual “Imagine a Day Without Water” on October 19, 2023. This nationwide initiative, led by the Value of Water Campaign, aims to educate and advocate for the significance of water and the critical need for investing in water infrastructure.

Water is a fundamental resource that sustains our daily lives, but it is often taken for granted. Imagine a Day Without Water serves as a stark reminder that many Americans face this reality every day due to under-developed and failing water infrastructure. The initiative calls upon all individuals to engage in conversations about water equity, affordability, and sustainable water management.

In Lawrence, we are fortunate to have a well-maintained water infrastructure that ensures the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water to our residents. Our city’s water treatment process involves two treatment plants: the Kaw River Water Treatment Plant, which has been in operation since 1917, and the Clinton Water Treatment Plant, which began operations in 1980. Together, they treat millions of gallons of water daily.

Steven Craig, Water Treatment Manager for Municipal Services & Operations, emphasized the importance of this infrastructure: “From our homes to our industries, water and wastewater infrastructure are the backbone of our community. It’s critical for all of us to enjoy a comfortable and healthy life.”

In addition to water treatment, Lawrence operates two wastewater treatment plants: the Kansas River Wastewater Treatment Plant, in operation since 1956, and the Wakarusa Wastewater Treatment Plant, which opened in 2018. These plants ensure that wastewater is treated to meet high-quality standards before being discharged into the Kansas and Wakarusa Rivers.

Craig added, “Behind the scenes, unsung heroes work tirelessly to ensure that every drop of water that reaches our homes is safe and clean. Our water and wastewater professionals understand their important role in the health and well-being of our community.”

As water and wastewater treatment processes become increasingly complex, Lawrence’s Municipal Services & Operations Department remains dedicated to sustainability by implementing equipment upgrades, process enhancements, and innovative automation at the four treatment plants.

Currently, Lawrence is in the design phase for upgrades to the Kansas River Wastewater Treatment Plant, with several years of construction ahead and a project budget of over $70 million. These efforts are made possible by our highly-trained, experienced, and dedicated staff.

Imagine a Day Without Water underscores the growing concern about the stability of water supplies and services, especially in the face of climate change and aging infrastructure. According to the 2021 Value of Water Index, 83 percent of Americans believe that ensuring a stable water supply should be a top federal priority, with addressing water contamination and investing in infrastructure ranking high on their priorities.

For more information about Imagine a Day Without Water, please visit imagineadaywithoutwater.org.

Contact: Michael Leos, Communication & Community Engagement Specialist, Municipal Services & Operations – mleos@lawrenceks.org