Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities (SLCDPU) is installing a BioTower at 1020 West Pierpont Avenue to implement odor control and protect underground sewer pipes. Over time, these gases have contributed to unpleasant smells and faster pipe deterioration. The BioTower will safely remove them, improving conditions for the community and the sewer system.

Upcoming Community Meeting

You’re invited to attend a meeting on Thursday, January 15 from 6:00 – 7:00 PM at Salt Lake City Public Utilities – West Campus (1805 W 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84104). Spanish interpretation will be available.

When you arrive, please enter through the main entrance. A staff member will be available at the front door to greet you and help direct you to the meeting room. We look forward to seeing you there.

What is the purpose of a BioTower?

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas forms naturally as waste breaks down in the sewer. Currently, this gas escapes through maintenance lids and causes strong odors. Hydrogen sulfide can also turn into sulfuric acid, which damages concrete sewer pipes. By filtering this gas, we are:

• Reducing odors in the immediate area
• Preventing pipe corrosion, which could lead to costly and disruptive emergency repairs.

How does it work?

The tower uses a biological process in which bacteria grow on a biomat (a plastic media), naturally breaking down sulfur compounds. The system is proven to remove up to 99.5% of hydrogen sulfide. We are also installing carbon filters to capture any remaining traces before air is released. The primary byproducts are water vapor and carbon dioxide.

What will the site look like?

After construction, we will install water-wise landscaping, including a mix of trees, decorative rock, and gravel to help the facility blend into the environment.

Why this specific location?

After a thorough study, this site was selected because it’s near a major junction where a 66-inch trunk line converges with other pumped lines.

When these lines meet, the water becomes turbulent, releasing hydrogen sulfide. To remove odors, we need to filter the gas where it’s being released.

Schedule

Construction is slated to begin as early as January 2026 and conclude by August 2026.

Project Timeline

• January 5, 2026: On-site neighborhood visit for interested residents (4:00 PM).
• January – March 2026: Site preparation and foundation work. This is when you will see the most activity as we prepare the connection to the 1200 West trunk line.
• March – May 2026: Vertical assembly of the BioTower structure and installation of the specialized filtration system.
• June 2026: Installation of the secondary carbon filters and water-wise landscaping (trees, shrubs, and decorative rock).
• July 2026: System testing, calibration, and full project completion.

Construction Impacts

• Construction activities Monday through Friday between 7am and 5pm.
• Occasional nighttime or weekend construction activities.
• Notification prior to any potential road closures or detours.
• Maintained vehicle access with brief interruptions. Trenches may be plated to provide vehicle access.
• Increased noise and dust should be expected.

Resources

• Presentation to Poplar Grove Community Council 4/23/2025
• Flyer mailed April 2025

Please contact us directly with any questions or concerns: