NEWS

During the 2008 National ACEC Engineering Excellence Awards a distinguished panel of judges representing a variety of professions selected engineering triumphs using criteria such as uniqueness and originality, and technical, economic and social value.  These awards affirm the vital role that ACEC member firms play in enhancing the quality of life and security of America and the world.

American Structurepoint’s project Bradford Woods Wastewater Treatment System, in Bloomington, Indiana, was selected as a Nation Honor Award winner.  American Structurepoint teamed with Natural Concepts Quality Water Engineering LLC, on this environmentally friendly alternative to a traditional wastewater treatment plant that has become an innovative complement for the 2,500-acre Bradford Wood nature preserve, Indiana University’s leading international outdoor education park. Aligning the need to replace an aging wastewater treatment system with the center’s dedication to environmental sustainability required the project team to design a wetlands-based system mimicking the purification process of a natural wetlands. The system includes a subsurface-flow constructed wetland, a vegetated re-circulating gravel filter, and a soil absorption system. In addition to a cost-effective alternative to wastewater treatment, the project also has become a valuable teaching and research tool for the university.