PROJECT INFORMATION:
In 1996, the city of Rawlins requested a Level II study to evaluate possible improvements to their
Sage Creek spring collector system, the Fort Steele pipeline, and the water treatment plant. The Ft.
Steele line is in poor condition, badly corroded, and is nearly unusable. The city has experienced
taste and odor problems during summer months and has asked the Farm Loan Board to fund
additional development of the springs on Sage Creek. It appears the algae growth in the reservoir
in conjunction with the existing treatment process has resulted in unacceptable water quality. Level
II funding was provided by the Wyoming legislature and the WWDC contracted with Western
Water Consultants to complete a Level II study. The study was completed in the spring of 1998.
A preliminary report prepared by the consultant recommended expansion of the spring collection
field, replacement of a wood stave transmission line in the spring field, replacement and relocation
of the Platte River diversion, replacement and relocation of the Platte River water supply raw water
transmission main, and major water treatment plant improvements. The preliminary Level II study
concludes that these improvements will provide Rawlins with a reliable water supply for the next
25 years.
Expansion of the spring collector field alone is insufficient to provide adequate water to Rawlins for
the 25 year planning horizon. In order to meet peak day demands, replacement of the pipeline that
conveys water from the North Platte River to the city is needed. The proposed new pipeline would
follow a more efficient route which will involve a change in the point of diversion. The new
alignment will facilitate possible delivery of raw water to outlying subdivisions, potential raw water
irrigation of some parks, and delivery of water to the town of Sinclair in emergencies.
Expansion and improvement of the spring field is contemplated at a later date. In addition, there
are proposed water treatment plant upgrades that total $3,500,000. The city of Rawlins will fund
these improvements with capital facilities tax money and grants/loans from funding agencies other
than the WWDC.
In 1998 the city of Rawlins received a 60% grant for replacement of the Ft Steele pipeline
($6,352,000 total cost). The remaining 40% of the project cost was financed through a capital
facilities sales tax that passed on November 4, 1997.
Currently, construction of the improvements to the water treatment plant is nearing completion. An
engineering contract was awarded in April, 1999 to Western Water Consultants Engineering
Laramie with the anticipated completion of the diversion and transmission plans and specifications
by March 2001. Routing of the transmission line will provide raw to the water treatment plant as
well as for irrigation of the new city golf course which is to be located on the east side of the city.
RECOMMENDED LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
No legislative action is required for this project.