Pure SoJo Facility Wins Prestigious Water Reuse Award

Utah's first direct potable reuse project recognized for innovation in sustainable water management

The City of South Jordan's pioneering Pure SoJo Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) Demonstration Facility has been named winner of the 2025 WateReuse Association Excellence in Action Award. The facility was honored yesterday at the 40th Annual WateReuse Symposium in Tampa, Florida.

Designed by Carollo Engineers, the Pure SoJo facility represents Utah's first direct potable reuse project, showcasing innovative approaches to securing sustainable water resources. The facility uses a sophisticated carbon-based advanced treatment system to transform wastewater into high-quality drinking water through multiple purification steps. This sustainable approach meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements while eliminating the need for brine disposal associated with traditional reverse osmosis systems. The facility is for demonstration purposes only and all the purified water is returned to the wastewater plant.

"This project represents an important step forward for water reuse in Utah," said South Jordan Public Works Department Director Raymond Garrison. "As one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., we recognize the need for sustainable water solutions. This project demonstrates how communities can proactively manage their water future while also advancing public understanding and regulatory frameworks for direct potable reuse in our state."

The project's innovative approach extends beyond its technical achievements. Strategic decisions, including repurposing existing space and pre-purchasing integrated equipment skids, helped complete the project $700,000 under budget.

"This esteemed acknowledgment speaks volumes about Utah's unwavering dedication to sustainable water management and creating awareness around alternative water supplies," said Carollo Project Manager Stetson Bassett. "It underscores Carollo's commitment to providing innovative solutions that serve communities and preserve our essential natural resources."

In addition to the demonstration facility design, Carollo provided engineering services during construction and continues to deliver ongoing operational and public outreach support. The demonstration facility is open to public tours and taste testing, and Carollo is currently working with South Jordan to understand what a full-scale facility could look like.

Building on this latest recognition, the Pure SoJo project has earned significant industry acclaim. It has earned the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence National Honor Award and ACEC's Utah Chapter’s Grand Award. The project was also featured on the ACEC, American Society of Civil Engineers, and American Public Works Association's Engineering and Public Works Roadshow, highlighting its significance for national infrastructure advancement.

Beyond industry recognition, the project has emerged as a model for water sustainability in the western United States. State and national leaders have taken notice, including Senator Mitt Romney, who noted during his October 2022 visit, "This is the kind of solution that could be adopted around the State."

About Carollo Engineers
For over 90 years, Carollo Engineers has provided a full range of innovative planning, design, and construction management services to address the water needs of municipalities, public agencies, private developers, and industrial clients. Carollo develops robust water management strategies that leverage collaboration, provide multi-benefit solutions, and achieve sustainability and resilience. Carollo has over 1,500 employees located across North America. For more information, visit www.carollo.com