Жители Флинта празднуют победу после отказа компании Integra Water в выдаче разрешения на строительство очистных сооружений

‘We’re here because we won’: Flint River residents celebrate after Integra Water withdraws permit HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) - Integra Water announced Thursday afternoon it is withdrawing its discharge permit application for a proposed wastewater facility on Winchester Road in New Market. Homeowners along the Flint River have opposed the project for more than a year, with some filing a lawsuit to stop the plant over concerns for swimming, fishing and kayaking in the river. The Birmingham-based company said community feedback made clear there was a need for more public understanding. Integra says it has no immediate plans for an alternative site. Jeff Williams, who lives along the Flint River, said the announcement felt like a victory after a long fight. “We’re here because we won. It’s been a journey. It’s been a struggle, but it’s also been a blessing in disguise,” Williams said. Ben Stafford, who has opposed the project for 14 months, said he was stunned by the news. “I was astounded, basically. For a few moments, I sat there speechless because this has been well over a year of us struggling and working together as a group to try to oppose this effort,” Stafford said. Jack Smith, who has lived along the river for nearly three decades and regularly canoes the area, said he celebrated the announcement at home. “I came out of my lazy boy quicker than I normally would. And I just did a couple of fist bumps and just me and the dog, I didn’t have anyone to hug. I was ecstatic, really because it’s been over a year since we started this struggle. I think we made it clear we’re not going away,” Smith said. Stafford said the group that opposed the project plans to continue its broader advocacy work. “While this is good news, we are continuing to work towards protecting the Flint River,” Stafford said. Neighbors plan to celebrate at Friday night’s Buckhorn football game wearing “Keep the Flint River Clean” shirts. Click Here to Subscribe on YouTube: Watch the latest WAFF 48 news, sports & weather videos on our YouTube channel! Copyright 2026 WAFF. All rights reserved.