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Workers in safety vests and helmets stand in front of large industrial tanks under a clear sky.Workers in safety vests and helmets stand in front of large PFAS vessels under a clear sky.

Anaheim pioneers the largest PFAS program in the U.S.  

We're helping Anaheim Public Utilities lead the nation in PFAS removal, restoring safe drinking water for residents through an innovative multi-phase treatment program. 

Client

Anaheim Public Utilities

Location

Anaheim, California

Practices

Emerging ContaminantsDrinking Water

Markets

Local GovernmentMunicipal Utilities

Priorities

PFAS

Connect with an expert

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Roshan Aflaki PhD, PE
Chemical Engineer

Designing a citywide groundwater treatment program to safeguard public health  

PFAS contamination threatened Anaheim’s drinking water, putting millions at risk. The city and CDM Smith acted quickly to design and implement the largest PFAS treatment program in the U.S. This multi-phase effort ensures regulatory compliance, restores groundwater reliability and delivers safe drinking water efficiently and cost-effectively. 

Cutting-edge treatment systems 

Nine new groundwater treatment sites now use ion exchange to reduce PFAS to non-detect levels for safe drinking water citywide.

Optimized operational flexibility  

A robust facility design allows for  future adjustments while maintaining system reliability. 

Accelerated construction schedule  

A design-build approach enabled rapid deployment despite supply chain challenges and an ambitious timeline. 

Engaging stakeholders for a safe water  future 

Collaboration with city agencies and the county's water district safeguarded groundwater and delivered long-term access. 

Anaheim has begun reaping the benefits of the largest PFAS treatment project in the U.S., providing 40 mgd of safe drinking water. This program sets a benchmark for scale, speed and innovation in PFAS mitigation. “We need to give credit to these cities and agencies for going through this tremendous effort to bring safe, clean water to their communities,” says Roshan Aflaki, client service leader for the project.   

Curious to learn more?

Connect with an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

Person in a white blouse with short hair stands by a window with cityscape in the background.

Roshan Aflaki

Chemical Engineer

Roshan brings technical expertise and management skills across all facets of waste collection and treatment operations.

See more of our work in PFAS

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