Wastewater Collection System Improvements
Project Overview
The Wastewater Collection System Improvements project involved rehabilitating and reconstructing six lift stations for the City of Leander, TX. Each lift station was treated as a distinct project with its own design plans, specifications and construction bidding process. One of the lift stations, Lift Station #6, was identified in 2019 as being in “poor” condition during a condition assessment conducted by GBA. Due to the deteriorating state of the station and its critical role in the wastewater collection system, GBA designed a comprehensive plan for its complete reconstruction within the framework of the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Project Location and Client
Although the project was located in the City of Cedar Park, TX, the City of Leander owns and operates the lift station. As a result, the project required permitting through both the Cities of Cedar Park and Leander. GBA effectively collaborated with both entities to address discrepancies in their municipal code requirements. For instance, while the City of Cedar Park mandated triplex lift stations at all locations, the design proposed by GBA, which included a duplex configuration, was permissible under Leander’s regulations. To meet Cedar Park’s requirements without introducing the additional complexities of a triplex system, GBA negotiated to provide a third pump for redundancy, ensuring compliance while streamlining the overall design.
Challenges
Lift Station #6 was found during the condition assessment to have multiple deficiencies that posed significant operational risks. The station’s pumps were due for replacement in 2021, but further issues compounded the need for a comprehensive solution. The station lacked critical components such as an emergency power genset system and automatic transfer switch, which are vital for continuous operation and environmental compliance. Additionally, numerous structural and mechanical elements, including fencing, ground cover, slabs, wet well, piping, hardware, hatches, vents, valves, controls, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and junction box locations, were identified as deficient and needing repair or replacement.
Design and Solution
GBA’s design solution involved the decommissioning and abandoning of the existing lift station, with a new, more robust lift station constructed just west of the original site. This approach was necessitated by the small footprint of the original site and the need for a complete replacement. The design incorporated innovative solutions, such as prefabricated valve vaults, which streamlined the construction process and enhanced the station’s reliability. GBA’s involvement extended beyond design and bid-phase services to include construction observation and mediation between the construction contractor and the City of Leander.
Unique Aspects of the Project
A notable aspect of this project was GBA’s holistic approach to system design. The new Lift Station #6 was developed in coordination with five other lift stations within the City of Leander’s Capital Improvement Program. GBA collaborated with Mansfield Pump Company for the sizing and selection of the prefabricated valve vaults, ensuring the solution was both efficient and reliable. Their expertise and support played a key role in streamlining the construction process and enhancing the station’s performance.
Why GBA?
GBA has a long-standing relationship with the City of Leander and extensive experience in designing and constructing pump and lift stations. This project exemplifies GBA’s approach of managing infrastructure improvements through coordinated, phased mini projects. This method provides flexibility in budgeting and funding approvals, offering significant advantages for clients facing financial constraints. By breaking down the project into manageable components, GBA helps clients navigate funding challenges while maintaining a cohesive and effective overall solution.
Conclusion
The Wastewater Collection System Improvements project for Lift Station #6 demonstrated GBA’s expertise in managing complex infrastructure projects and ability to deliver innovative, reliable solutions. The project is on track for completion in May 2025. GBA’s continued involvement in construction oversight highlights the long-term success of our valued client.