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Highly Visible Change at Jones Island

09/17/26 12:00:pm

Contact: Bill Graffin

MMSD Public Information Manager

bgraffin@mmsd.com

(414) 225-2077

Under normal operation, MMSD discharges exhaust from the Milorganite Building at Jones Island through a 350-foot-tall exhaust stack. 

Starting 9-21-26, due to a two-year construction project inside the building, MMSD will be discharging some exhaust directly through the roof of the Milorganite Building.

MMSD is drawing attention to this change because it will be highly visible at times for drivers going over the Hoan Bridge.

Certain weather conditions may cause water vapor from the exhaust to drift across the Hoan Bridge, potentially leading to visibility or freezing issues. MMSD will monitor for these conditions, post warning signs, and take other actions as necessary.

If any visibility, icing, or safety problems arise, MMSD can reduce operations or shut off the exhaust coming from the Milorganite building rooftop.

If there is additional information you need, please reach out to Bill Graffin at 414-225-2077.

All exhaust air will continue to go through pollution control equipment before being released into the atmosphere.

MMSD must still comply with the rules and regulations of its air discharge permit with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

The below pictures show what venting looks like from the stack and the top of the Milorganite building.
View of Lake Michigan, Hoan Bridge, and the Jones Island Smokestack

Normal exhaust stack operation at Jones Island Water Reclamation Facility

Exhaust rising up vents on the Milorganite building at Jones island

Exhaust rising up vents on the Milorganite®  building at Jones Island Water Reclamation Facility

Aerial view of the Jones Island Water Reclamation Facility, and the Milorganite building.

Aerial map of Jones Island water reclamation facility and the Milorganite building