Crews are installing a new chlorine dioxide unit at the Jefferson Water Plant in Laredo, according to Laredo utilities officials. The officials said the unit could address taste and odor problems in tap water.
Utilities officials said high summer temperatures commonly lead to algae blooms in the Rio Grande, which they said cause the odor and taste at residents' faucets. Ralph Trevino, assistant director of the Laredo Utilities Department, said leaders hear the community's frustrations about the issue.
Installation is expected to finish within the first two weeks of November. Exact startup dates are still being finalized. Officials said that once the system proves effective, it could also eliminate or delay the need for annual chlorine water burns across the city.