The Problem
The main distribution system for Washington relies entirely on a single, rapidly deteriorating, 6-inch distribution line. Replacement of all or part of this line has been a high priority for the district; however, there have been insufficient funds to install and replace the distribution line, or to repair and upgrade the alignment where it has experienced erosion and slumping.
The Solution
This project will evaluate the existing pipeline, identify segments in critical need of repair, and replace as much of the degraded line as possible.
The work effort includes a field assessment of the entire line to determine which segments and/or joints are in the most critical condition and need to be replaced, as well as any segments that simply need repairs of joints or installation of pressure-reducing valves. The assessment will require the removal of decades-old brush and small tree growth to allow for engineers to inspect the 3-mile length of line. The necessity of rerouting a portion of the line will also be considered and, if necessary, easement realignment will be undertaken.
As a result of the field assessment, a Field Evaluation Report will be prepared which will recommend a construction phasing strategy as well as identifying which segments of the line need to be replaced (based on visual inspection and field tests by the engineers). As part of the overall mapping of the WCWD infrastructure, the Maybert Alignment, Relief Hill Road, and the Downtown will be surveyed and mapped with all lateral service connections marked. Any environmental review associated with project components will be accomplished, as will any required permitting (both through the Nevada County Planning Department).
The construction effort will be complicated by the combination of one-lane dirt road access in most portions of the alignment, the absence of staging areas along the alignment, the relatively steep topography along much of the right-of-way/easement, and the distance between available staging areas and the areas of pipe replacement.
Current Status (September 2016)
The Maybert Road Transfer and Distribution Line Replacement will be completed by October 2017.
The Field Assessment is currently underway and will be competed and design finalized by the end of the third quarter 2016. It is anticipated that construction will begin in early spring of 2017 and be completed by October 2017, with brush clearing along the pipe alignment occurring in December of 2015 and January of 2017, with final route clearing just prior to construction.
The final mapping of all improved segments will be finalized after the construction and performance testing activities are completed, likely during the last quarter of 2017.
Lead Agency
City of Nevada City
Contact
Bryan McAlister, City Engineer, (530) 265-2496 x126, bryan.mcalister@nevadacity.ca.gov
Measurable Physical Benefits
Water Supply
Watershed
Yuba
County
Nevada