Public comment is now being taken on permits requested for the proposed modernization of the Aluminum Company of America plants in Massena.

The proposed permits are available for public review. Comments will be taken until Sept. 21.

Alcoa owns and operates two primary aluminum reduction facilities in Massena.

The proposed modernization at Massena East Plant includes replacing the three old Soderberg potlines with a modern technology pre-bake potline and adding an anode cooling room and bath dumping station. This project will result in net decreases in emissions of sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, total fluoride, particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and carbon monoxide, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

The proposed modernization for the Alcoa Massena West Plant includes increasing the recent throughput of the anode manufacturing facility by taking advantage of historic production capacity to supply the needs of the new potline at Massena East Plant as well as the existing potline at Massena West Plant. In addition, the proposed modernization would add a new emission unit A-00003 which will include one molten aluminum melting and holding furnace, one aluminum homogenizing heat treat furnace and one in-line filterbox fluxing unit. These upgrades to their facility will increase aluminum production with a more efficient, cleaner operation, DEC says.

Comments on this project must be submitted in writing no later than Sept. 21. The Draft Permit and Permit Review Report are available at http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/32249.html.

The Title V files, the draft permit and all other materials are available for review by appointment during normal business hours at DEC’s Watertown office. Contact Lawrence R. Ambeau at 785-2245 or lrambeau@gw.dec.state.ny.us to schedule an appointment.

Written comments can be mailed to Lawrence R. Ambeau, NYSDEC, 317 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.