NORTH PORT — City staff are anticipating the grand opening of a new reverse-osmosis plant on April 5, bringing with it better taste and water quality for residents, according to North Port Utilities Director Cindi Mick.

The $8.9 million facility at 5655 North Port Blvd., was scheduled to open in December, but Mick said an overly ambitious construction schedule and a few weather hang-ups pushed the grand opening back four months.