GLADEWATER — A $6.5 million construction project is under way on the city's water treatment plant on East Lake Road.

The plant is more than 50 years old and in need of serious upgrades to meet the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality standards, said interim City Manager Melba Haralson.

The city received a U.S. Department of Agriculture and Rural Development grant for $1.6 million, and took out a $4.9 million loan to fund the 18-month project.

The loan is on a 40-month repayment schedule with low interest, Haralson said.

"There are several projects taking place at the water plant," said John Ringler, KSA engineer.

■ Two new clarifiers, which clean the raw water that is pumped out of the lakes;

■ Four new filters, which take out matter that doesn't settle out in the clarifiers;

■ Three new high-service pumps, which pump water to the distribution centers;

■ New supplemental back- wash pump, which cleans the filters;

■ New electrical controls.

"There are also several site improvements being done," Ringler said, "including new chemical equipment for disinfection."

All of the construction is taking place while the plant is operating, Ringler noted.

Haralson said the city would eventually like to add another water tower to improve water pressure for residents.

Construction at the plant is slated for completion by December 2011, according to Ringler.