The new Mathews pipeline is nearly complete. While it has previously been tested in sections, the entire system of pipelines and pump stations is scheduled to undergo a full scale test next week, said a press release from Hampton Roads Sanitation District spokesman Nancy Munnikhuysen. If the test is successful, she said, the system will be placed in service.

Once the system is in service, HRSD can begin deactivation of the Mathews Wastewater Treatment Plant which currently empties treated wastewater into Put-In Creek, said Munnikhuysen. The deactivation process will include shutdown of the treatment process followed by removal of equipment that can be reused.

The demolition of structures and piping, which will occur in stages, requires Virginia Department of Environmental Quality approval, said Munnikhuysen. She doesn’t yet know how long demolition activities will take. After the pump station is removed, she said, a small in-ground pump station will remain on site to s...