by Kevin Zimmermann
SHEBOYGAN, WI (WHBL) – The Sheboygan Water Utility is facing the need to re-think its proposal for a new raw water improvements project as cost figures have come in significantly higher than expected. How much higher than the initial target of $29M isn’t clear, but at a recent meeting of the Board of Water Commissioners, Superintendent Joe Trueblood reported that the utility is already looking at a number of cost-reduction items.
The project centers on the need to build a new, primary water intake pipeline and pumping station to the community, one that would supply ample water, be less susceptible to winter ice buildup, and last about 100 years. Plans are also for the new pumping station to supply raw water to a new remote plant location in the future.
Major re-engineering of the plans is now being done to reduce costs, such as eliminating an emergency backup intake along with reducing the building footprint and moving the location. Studies also show that one of the two existing intakes – the one built in 1919 – remains serviceable for the next 10-20 years, but plans for its replacement must be made. And while a 30-year Safe Drinking Water Loan from the state could help soften the impact, commissioners were told that eventually, rates will have to increase to cover the costs.
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