Frisco, Colorado, is moving forward with a comprehensive plan to address emerging contaminants in its drinking water supply. Construction of a new treatment facility designed to remove PFAS – per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, often called “forever chemicals” – is slated to begin next month near Frisco Adventure Park, with the goal of full operation by the end of 2027. The project represents a significant investment in public health and a proactive step toward safeguarding the town’s water resources.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in a wide range of consumer and industrial products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam. Because they don’t break down easily in the environment, they’ve become widespread contaminants, raising concerns about potential health effects, including impacts on the immune system and increased risk of certain cancers. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently finalized national drinking water standards for six PFAS, setting maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) that water systems will be required to meet. More information about PFAS and the EPA’s regulations can be found on the agency’s website.
Addison Canino, Frisco’s capital projects senior manager, emphasized the town’s hope that this project will serve as a model for other communities grappling with PFAS contamination. “When we do commission this new facility, that is something that can be an example that other municipalities can build off of,” Canino said. Mayor pro tem Andy Held echoed this sentiment, stating the facility should “challenge every other municipality to be looking into the quality of their water.” He added, “I wouldn’t be surprised if the PFAS is actually more widespread than was assumed previously.”
Years in the Making: From Detection to Action
The journey to address PFAS in Frisco’s water system began in early 2020 when the town participated in voluntary sampling coordinated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Testing revealed the presence of PFAS in Well 7, located near the popular Frisco Adventure Park. As a precautionary measure, the town took the well offline in 2022 to allow for the design and budgeting of a dedicated treatment facility. Summit Daily reported on the initial findings and the decision to take Well 7 offline in 2022.
Since then, Frisco has worked with engineering consultants to evaluate various treatment options. A pilot program conducted through 2024 determined that granular activated carbon (GAC) filtration is the most effective method for removing PFAS from the town’s water. GAC works by filtering water through a bed of highly porous carbon, which attracts and traps PFAS compounds. The treated water then undergoes further standard treatment before distribution.
Funding and Construction Details
The Frisco Town Council unanimously approved a contract with Hensel Phelps Construction on December 9, 2025, for the installation of the PFAS treatment facility at Well 7. The contract is not to exceed $8,092,101. The project is largely funded by an $8.2 million forgivable loan secured through a state revolving fund, a significant win for the town, according to Canino, who credited water superintendent Ryan Thompson for his efforts in obtaining the funding.
Construction is expected to accelerate due to the secured funding and favorable weather conditions. Workers are anticipated to break ground in mid-May, with fencing around the construction site going up as early as next month. Canino is coordinating with the Parks and Recreation Department to minimize disruptions to activities like summer camps during the approximately 18-month construction period. Council member Robyn Goldstein suggested incorporating educational materials at the site to inform residents about the project and the science behind PFAS treatment, stating, “I would love to see any sort of educational materials outside of that fence, just showing the public what’s happening.”
A Flexible Treatment System
The chosen GAC system offers flexibility for future adjustments. Canino explained that the system can be expanded to incorporate ion-exchange treatment if EPA regulations evolve. The council also favored GAC because it doesn’t generate hazardous waste, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Mayor pro tem Held clarified that the water will be pre-treated with GAC before being discharged into the town’s sanitation system for additional processing, ensuring a multi-layered approach to water quality.
Hensel Phelps Construction, based in Greeley, was selected due to their proven track record with the town, according to Canino. Town sanitation staff will also contribute to the construction process, particularly along the Peninsula Recreation Area.
As Frisco moves forward with this critical infrastructure project, it joins a growing number of communities nationwide confronting the challenge of PFAS contamination. The town’s proactive approach and commitment to transparency could serve as a valuable example for others seeking to protect their water supplies and public health. Residents can find updates on the project and learn more about PFAS on the town of Frisco’s website.
The next major milestone for the project is the completion of fieldwork, including mapping a U.S. Forest Service sanitary sewer line adjacent to the facility’s foundation, currently underway.
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