Full Description

The purpose of this paper is to review hydraulic modeling strategies that lead to cost-effective solutionsfor capital improvements. The review includes lessons learned from a successful large program managementproject, as applied to water distribution systems.The Augusta (Georgia, USA) Utilities Department (AUD) and CH2M HILL worked together to developthe long-term plan and funding strategy needed to meet the challenges posed by a an aging infrastructureand a change in raw water sources mandated by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division(GAEPD). Modeling strategies, part of the long-term plan, were used to evaluate alternative locations fora new surface water treatment plant, in order to meet the requirement to replace the groundwater supply,and to plan for extensive upgrading of the infrastructure with new pipelines, tanks, and pump stations.Utilities face limited funding options today, meaning that all capital improvements must be more costeffective than ever before. In addition, AUD's water system is complex, and the system redundancyneeded for emergency response and for providing system-wide security is more difficult to achieve withsuch multi-zone systems. AUD's program management approach provided for accurate definition of theutility's total needs and selection of the best improvement alternatives. Innovations to meet thechallenges of limited funding options and system complexity and to comply with the GAEPD directiveswere made possible with a combination of hydraulic modeling, geographical information system (GIS)technology, and focused field work. Includes tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition: Vol. - No. Published: 04/18/2004 Number of Pages: 15 File Size: 1 file , 1.5 MB