(KNZA)--Plans for the construction of a new Hiawatha water treatment plant advance.

The City Commission Tuesday evening approved seeking bids for construction of the new plant to address the ongoing problem of high nitrate levels in the city’s water supply system.

That follows final approval of the revised plans and specifications for the project from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

City Administrator Mike Nichols says bids are to be opened July 13th, with a recommendation made to the Commission at their July 17th meeting.

Construction is expected to take 12 to 18 months.

The new plant is to be constructed on property north of Hiawatha.  

The total project cost is estimated at more than $4.9 million.

Initial funds for the project with come from a loan through KDHE, which comes with a 30 percent principal forgiveness.