January 21, 2013 (HARWICH) _ Harwich voters got their first detailed look on Saturday of the proposed wastewater treatment plan for the town.

The Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan calls for a 40-year project that would cost between $180 and $230 million.

It would eventually include two treatment plants, with the first phase using the Chatham wastewater treatment plant to treat Harwich flows from Pleasant Bay.

Future phases would utilize a Harwich treatment plant built at the landfill site to treat and recharge wastewater from four other watersheds.

David Young, vice-president of CDM-Smith went over the plan in detail during a forum at the Harwich Community Center.

The plan assumes 23% growth over the 40 year period – and would eventually sewer 30% to 40% of the town.
           
While the residents in attendance on Saturday appeared in favor of dealing with the town’s nitrogen loading problem – there were also many questions about how the town – and taxpayers – will be able to afford the huge cost.

Harwich selectmen are expected to discuss the plan on January 28^th – and likely vote to authorize the town to file the document with state officials.

That would begin the formal review process with the Department of Environmental Protection .