Water tower project planned for Huron

HURON — Local officials tapped into a major project to provide more water to area residents. During a recent public meeting, Huron city council received an update on plans for the local government to pursue building a new 2-million-gallon elevated water storage tank. Here are the main details as explained by interim city manager Stu Hamilton: • Where: It'll be built at the end of Sawmill Parkway, located off Rye Beach Road near Ohio 2. Even though there's presently a water tower in this area, resembling a fishing bobber, this new one will become the second such structure there. Eventually, the older water will be removed, but that won't happen for at least 10 years. • When: Construction should start this fall and end in mid-2026. The project did face some delays in getting started, such as finding the proper site. • Why: "We don't have enough water in the area to support main breaks and fires. This new water tower will give more security to residents, businesses and the whole city." Note: In or around 2022, Huron's water plant completed a major expansion, which can process more water — faster, safer and in a more reliable manner — for area customers. Officials noted how a new water storage tower "is a top priority for the city to ensure consistent clean water delivery." • How: The total project costs $8.5 million. The state previously provided a $5 million grant. The city, through low-interest loans, intends to finance the remaining $3.5 million portion. Ardagh Metal Packaging, meanwhile, donated the land, solving a major problem. In return, it'll have its logo placed on the water tower. "We are very thankful to Ardagh for working with the city on this project."