Union Pacific is moving forward with the next phase of groundwater remediation in the 29th and Grove neighborhood with new activity planned in 2026.
With approval from the Wichita City Council, Union Pacific will build two new groundwater treatment facilities and expand a third under oversight from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). The efforts are intended to accelerate groundwater remediation in the area.
Currently, six extraction wells are operating and supporting the ongoing groundwater cleanup at the 29th and Grove site.
Groundwater treatment systems are designed to remove trichloroethylene (TCE) and other contaminants from groundwater. After treatment, water is returned underground or, in some cases, routed into the city’s stormwater system through approved agreements.
The ongoing treatment of groundwater in this neighborhood has no impact on Wichita’s drinking water supply, which comes from a separate, city-managed source.
Union Pacific plans to submit finalized design plans for the facilities for KDHE’s review in the spring of 2026, with construction work expected to start in the fall of 2026.
Here’s how groundwater treatment works.
Step 1: Extraction
The process begins by pulling contaminated groundwater from below the surface so it can be treated. This creates a controlled flow of groundwater into the treatment facility, where cleanup begins.
Step 2: Treatment
Inside the facility, groundwater moves through a multi-step system designed to
reduce TCE concentrations and other contaminants. After treatment, the water is ready for approved reinjection or discharge.
Step 3: Reinjection and Discharge
Treated water is routed through approved pathways, either reinjected underground or discharged to the city stormwater system. Progress is tracked through regular well testing and monitoring in coordination with KDHE.
Modernizing and Expanding Treatment
Under the approved plan, two new treatment facilities will be located at 13th Street between Pennsylvania Avenue and I-135 and at 22nd Street between Ash Street and Opportunity Drive. The expanded facility will be at I-135 and Murdock Avenue. Union Pacific plans to submit final design plans for KDHE review next year, with construction expected to start in 2026.
Union Pacific will continue providing project updates and milestones on the Action for 29th and Grove website.
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