Hot Springs, NC Took Major Step Toward Cleaner Future Last Week With Arrival of BluBox Modular Wastewater System

Hot Springs, NC Took Major Step Toward Cleaner Future Last Week With Arrival of BluBox Modular Wastewater System—Modeling Rural Innovation in Statewide Initiative

Supported by the NC Collaboratory, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), McGill Associates, and UNC, the project showcases sustainable infrastructure for rural North Carolina.

Hot Springs, NC — Hot Springs took a major step toward a cleaner, resilient future last week by welcoming the BluBox Modular Water System, a state-of-the-art, rapidly deployable wastewater treatment solution. As an early pilot site in a North Carolina Collaboratory-funded, statewide initiative, Hot Springs is at the forefront of rural communities adopting this innovative technology.

Key Project Benefits

Protects the French Broad River and drinking water resources
Supports a tourism-focused economy and long-term community resilience
Provides scalable, cost-effective advanced wastewater treatment
Models collaboration between local leadership, university research, engineering experts, and state environmental regulators

“With BluBox, Hot Springs is not only preserving our environment but providing a blueprint for other rural communities seeking modern, affordable solutions,” said Mayor Abby Norton. “This project proves that public-private-academic partnerships can make a lasting difference.”

The initiative is part of the Highly Treated Wastewater Program—funded by the American Rescue Plan through the N.C. General Assembly and managed by the NC Collaboratory in partnership with the UNC School of Government, NC DEQ, and McGill Associates. DEQ’s regulatory and technical expertise ensures environmental compliance, reviews permitting, and supports monitoring outcomes for all pilot communities.

Why Hot Springs?

With a wastewater system over 50 years old and a vital need to protect local natural resources, the arrival of BluBox helps Hot Springs address challenges posed by growth and seasonal tourism. The project sets a new standard for resilient, research-driven investment in rural North Carolina.

About the BluBox System

BluBox Modular Water Systems deliver rapid, advanced treatment in a compact footprint. Fully integrated and engineered for compliance, BluBox units offer quick installation, easy expandability, and decades of technical expertise—making them ideal for rural and small-town needs.

What’s Next?

Installation began last week, with ongoing research and technical support from the UNC School of Government’s Environmental Finance Center, NC DEQ, and McGill Associates. Town leaders will keep residents and stakeholders informed as the project progresses, and project results will be shared with the state to guide future water infrastructure programs.

About the Partners

Town of Hot Springs

A scenic mountain town in Madison County, North Carolina, Hot Springs is renowned for its outdoor recreation, vibrant tourism, and commitment to sustainability.

NC Collaboratory

Established by the NC General Assembly in 2016, the Collaboratory transforms university research into practical improvements for North Carolinians, investing $148 million in over 400 projects statewide.

NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)

The NC DEQ safeguards the state’s air, water, and land resources through oversight, permitting, regulatory compliance, and technical support for communities and environmental initiatives.

McGill Associates

A leading engineering and consulting firm in North Carolina, McGill Associates brings decades of experience in innovative infrastructure solutions for municipalities and communities.

BluBox Modular Water Systems

An industry leader in modular wastewater treatment, BluBox delivers fast, scalable, and reliable solutions that redefine what’s possible for small and rural systems.

Learn More and Follow

Project details, partner resources, and progress updates:

Media Contact:

Brad J. Guth Project Manager

projectmanager@townofhotsprings.org

828-206-3387