TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - A new wastewater district in northeastern Tippecanoe County is one step closer to becoming reality.

Septic systems have been failing in Colburn, Americus and Buck Creek. Plans to address the issue have been in the works for several years.

"We're trying to bring some new life into those small little communities,” said Tippecanoe County Commissioner Tom Murtaugh.

According to Murtaugh, talks for the new facility started when the county noticed drainage issues in the Buck Creek area.

"It turns out that there's some issues within Buck Creek. Some pretty significant issues within Buck Creek with some home owners actually discharging directly into Buck Creek.,” said Murtaugh.

Since passing a master utility plan last September, the county determined Americus would be the best location for the future treatment facility.

"We also looked at putting smaller plants in each of the three communities and that was not as cost effective,” said Murtaugh.

Last week, County Commissioners signed a preliminary engineer report to determine the project's exact costs.

Murtaugh said the county is looking into grants to help fund the project. And residents can expect a sewage bill once the project is completed.

"When this goes into effect, they'll have to pay for a sewage treatment bill just like you do if you're in the city of Lafayette,” said Murtaugh.

Murtaugh said the project's next step is to create a regional sewer district board. The project is still several years away from being completed.