The City of De Soto, Kansas, has completed a major expansion of its wastewater treatment plant, doubling its treatment capacity to support the new Panasonic electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing facility.
City officials marked the completion of the project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony after the upgraded plant began operations in March.
Capacity Doubles to Meet Growing Demand
The expansion increases the plant’s treatment capacity from 1.3 million gallons per day (MGD) to 2.6 MGD.
The project was driven by the construction of Panasonic’s $4 billion battery manufacturing facility, which is expected to create 4,000 jobs and supply batteries for electric vehicles.
According to the City of De Soto, the upgraded plant strengthens local infrastructure while supporting future residential and industrial growth.
Fast-Tracked Delivery
A joint venture between Burns & McDonnell and CAS Constructors delivered the $40 million project using a progressive design-build approach.
The team completed the initial design phase in less than six months. This allowed construction and procurement to begin early and helped the city meet Panasonic’s demanding project schedule.
Project teams also worked closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Panasonic to meet permit requirements and define treatment needs.
Advanced Water Treatment
The expanded facility uses a combination of chemical, physical and biological treatment processes.
The upgraded system removes nitrogen and phosphorus more effectively while meeting stricter environmental regulations.
In addition, phased construction and early procurement helped keep the project on schedule without disrupting existing operations.
Supporting Long-Term Growth
City officials said the expansion provides reliable wastewater treatment for Panasonic’s initial operations while creating capacity for future development across the region.
The investment also improves the reliability of essential public infrastructure for residents and businesses.
