Cape Girardeau Water Treatment Plant faces mechanical failure, potential summer shortage

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The City of Cape Girardeau’s Water Treatment Plant is facing a mechanical failure that could challenge its water supply as summer approaches.

One of the plant’s three clarifiers failed this week, leaving the facility capable of producing 4.95 million gallons of water per day. A second water plant provides an additional 2 million gallons per day, bringing the total capacity to 6.95 million gallons per day.

While current production is sufficient for now, it is not sustainable long-term. Peak water demand last summer reached 9.8 million gallons per day, and maximum capacity is expected to be reached by May 2025.

The estimated cost of repairs is approximately $1 million, with completion expected within several months. City officials emphasize that the issue does not affect water quality, which continues to meet or exceed state regulatory standards.

Residents can subscribe to maintenance updates and register for water advisories at Local Alerting – City of Cape Girardeau