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McMahon’s Impact on Wisconsin’s Water Infrastructure 

The foundation of any thriving community is access to clean, reliable water. For over a century, McMahon has helped shape Wisconsin’s water infrastructure—working with municipalities large and small to meet the evolving needs of their residents. Its influence can be seen in wells, towers and pipelines across the state. 

Founded in 1909 in the Fox Valley, McMahon began as a local engineering firm. Over generations, the company expanded its reach and expertise, growing into a trusted partner for communities statewide. While McMahon’s capabilities broadened alongside changing technologies and regulations, its values have remained steady: service, client satisfaction and solutions that stand the test of time. 

By approaching each challenge as an opportunity for long-term impact, McMahon continues to help municipalities move from outdated water systems to resilient, future-ready networks. 

Leading the Way in Water Treatment 

Innovation is central to McMahon’s philosophy. Whether it’s finding new ways to meet regulatory requirements or streamlining distribution systems for efficiency, it looks beyond quick fixes to deliver creative, cost-effective solutions. When it comes to water treatment, McMahon is a leader in adopting advanced technologies that safeguard communities. 

The recent Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment System in Winneconne is a clear example. To address the village’s water quality concerns, McMahon conducted extensive pilot testing and opted for a centralized RO membrane treatment facility designed for both efficiency and compliance—only the third municipal application of its kind in Wisconsin.  

Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment System in Winneconne, Wisconsin 

  • Three (3) two-stage reverse osmosis membrane skids were installed. 
  • Each membrane skid features eight (8) 8-inch diameter, 6-element pressure vessels, providing a feed capacity of 250-gpm per skid for a total system capacity of 500-gpm when one stage is out of service or in a cleaning cycle. 
  • A clean-in-place and permeate flush skid system was provided for maintenance. 
  • Chemical feed systems consisting of scale inhibitors, sodium hypochlorite, blended phosphate and pH adjustment as well as chemicals for membrane cleaning were provided. 
  • The Well #2 project included upgrades to the electrical and control systems, which also added new emergency backup power for uninterrupted operation. 

Sustainability for the Long Haul 

Recognizing that today’s investments must serve communities reliably for generations, McMahon prioritizes solutions that not only address current needs but also anticipate future demands, reduce long-term costs, and simplify ongoing maintenance. This forward-thinking approach shapes every project, big or small, ensuring that both resources and infrastructure remain resilient long into the future. 

The Town of Greenville faced aging infrastructure and operational inefficiencies that required a comprehensive solution. McMahon stepped in to develop a Water System Master Plan that would streamline operations, enhance system reliability, and ensure sustainable service for years to come. 

Water System Improvements in Greenville, Wisconsin 

  • Combined three pressure zones into a single zone. 
  • Constructed a new elevated tower to replace storage capacity from an older tower, while adjusting overflow elevations and modifying an existing tower to maintain consistent pressure across the community. 
  • Replaced a leaking iron filter tank at Well #3 with a new packaged iron filter system, featuring a removable underdrain plate for factory coating, easier inspection, and ongoing preventative maintenance. 
  • Kept the existing filter system in service during construction to maintain uninterrupted water quality and service. 

Collaboration as a Cornerstone 

None of these successful projects happen in isolation. McMahon believes strongly in the power of partnership—working side by side with municipal leaders, utility staff and the communities themselves. Collaboration is woven into the planning and implementation of every project. It means listening to local needs, respecting budgets and supporting operators long after construction is finished. 

This collaborative approach ensures that every project is not just a technical success but also a meaningful investment in the community. By fostering strong partnerships, prioritizing sustainability and focusing on long-term resilience, McMahon continues to help Wisconsin communities thrive well into the future. 

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