Posted on March 10, 2025
MOBILE, Ala. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile District, has awarded Southern Contracting, LLC of Biloxi, Mississippi, a $4.5 million construction contract to expand the City of Gautier’s Water Treatment Plant.
The project aims to enhance the city’s water infrastructure and improve drinking water quality for residents.
The contract includes the construction of a new Nanofiltration Water Treatment Plant, which will be located next to the existing Ion Exchange Water Treatment Plant at the city’s public works department on Vancleave Road. This new facility will serve as a modern alternative to the current system.
“With this $4.5 million contract award, we are proud to continue supporting the City of Gautier in its efforts to improve its public water system,” said Jonas White, Mobile District project manager. “The new nanofiltration system will significantly improve water quality and provide a more reliable, efficient treatment process for the community.”
Gautier’s water supply comes from a natural aquifer that produces a color level that exceeds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. The new nanofiltration system will address this using advanced membrane filtration technology to remove contaminants, ensuring residents’ clearer and safer drinking water.
“The community should not be affected during construction,” said Paula Yancey, Gautier City manager. “However, after the plant is up and running, it should treat 3 million gallons per day. Along with the existing 1-million-gallon-per-day Ion Exchange Plant, most of the water within the city of Gautier should be clear.”
The water’s current color has posed challenges for residents, businesses, and city leadership, leading some to seek alternative water sources. The nanofiltration plant will provide a sustainable and efficient solution to address this issue.
As amended, the project is authorized under Section 219 (c)(5) of the Water Resources Development Act of 1992, Public Law 102-580. This section allows USACE to provide assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure projects that benefit communities across the nation.
Gautier owns and operates its public water supply system and is responsible for maintaining its water treatment facilities. The new nanofiltration system is a key investment in the city’s long-term water quality and capacity needs.
“I am very appreciative of Mobile District, Civil Works Programs & Project Management Branch Chief Justin McDonald and his efforts in communicating with me and assisting in pushing this project forward to award,” Yancey said. “Working with the Mobile District has been a great experience, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on our community.”
