Texas Supreme Court issues decision in favor of Dripping Springs wastewater expansion project
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- The city of Drippings Springs can now move forward with its plans to expand its South Regional Wastewater System.
The expansion will also allow the city to use "effluent produced by the plant to irrigate parks and open space," the city said in a news release.
The Texas Supreme Court ruled there was no science to back up an allegation that the permit for the facility violated Texas water quality standards. That claim is part of a lawsuit filed by the Save Our Springs Alliance.
Water advocates worry the facility could cause muddy water to run into the groundwater. The new wastewater system is meant to address a growing capacity crisis in the city.
"Many of these spaces are currently using drinking water for irrigating purposes, which is not sustainable or the right long-term solution," the city said.
The city said now that it has full access to its permit, "more developments will be able to use effluent for its watering needs rather than potable water."
“This is a significant day for the City of Dripping Springs and our community as a whole,” Mayor Bill Foulds said in the release. “We have been working on this for 12 years. Our responsibility is to care for our residents and protect our natural resources, while planning for the growth that continues to come our way. I am grateful the Court saw the wisdom in the science and engineering we have conducted throughout the process. We have worked with the best experts in the country including hydrologists and engineers, and I think that was evident today.”