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Location
Big Spring, TX, United States
Awards
2022 ACEC Texas Engineering Excellence Awards

Big Spring Big Sandy MSW Landfill – Ph 1

Collaborative Innovation Creates a Landfill for Future Generations.

The City of Big Spring partnered with Parkhill to secure a Type I Municipal Solid Waste Permit for a 242-acre landfill in Howard County. Designed to provide over 12.74 million cubic yards of waste disposal capacity and approximately 106 years of landfill life, the project ensures a sustainable solution for waste management in the region. This forward-thinking initiative not only benefits Big Spring but also supports surrounding counties, setting a precedent for long-term environmental responsibility.

building at Big Spring/Howard County Big Sandy MSW Landfill
Big Sandy Draw Landfill, Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020, in Big Spring, Texas.

Collaborative Efforts to Overcome Complex Challenges

Securing the permit required meticulous coordination with multiple agencies, including TCEQ, TxDOT, the FAA, and the Texas Historical Commission. A key challenge was addressing heavy traffic surrounding the landfill. Through a traffic study and collaboration with TxDOT, Parkhill developed intersection upgrades to enhance safety and accommodate landfill-related traffic. Archeological investigations and environmental assessments ensured compliance with regulations, particularly near Big Sandy Draw, where flood risks and topographical variations demanded precise grading and drainage solutions

Delivering Innovation and Excellence

Parkhill’s role included preparing the permit application, coordinating with TCEQ, conducting public meetings, and ensuring compliance with local and state regulations. The application involved designing landfill features such as excavation plans, drainage, gas collection systems, leachate collection, and final closure plans. The initial application was submitted to TCEQ in January 2017 and approved in August 2021. 

buildings at Big Spring/Howard County Big Sandy MSW Landfill
Big Sandy Draw Landfill, Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020, in Big Spring, Texas.

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