Natick PFAS Filter Near Completion, But Delays Continue

NATICK, MA — A new water filtration system in Natick designed to remove PFAS chemicals from drinking water is very close to completion, according to the Department of Public Works, but could be complete by February.

Natick's PFAS journey began about a year ago when the town discovered elevated levels of the chemicals at the H&T portion of the Springvale treatment plant, which is also the main source of drinking water in town. Natick took H&T offline, switching the drinking water source to the Elm Bank treatment plant.

After approval by Town Meeting and state officials, Natick over the summer began building a granulated active carbon system at Springvale H&T along Route 9 to remove PFAS. The filters were supposed to be done by November, but the town has reported that supply chain issues have stalled construction.

"Due to supply chain issues, the project timeline has been extended multiple times and the filters are now anticipated to be in operation by late February, pending weather conditions," the town said in a Jan. 6 update.

In the update, the town said it is awaiting the construction of a building to house the filters. After that, work on the inside of the structure can be started.

PFAS chemicals have been used for decades in household and industrial applications, including on nonstick pans and waterproof fabrics, and in foam used to fight fires. The chemicals can build up in the body over time, and may cause cancer, thyroid disease and birth defects, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.