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 will be financed through a capital facilities sales tax that was passed
on November 4, 1997.
Currently the improvements to the water treatment plant is near completion.
An engineering contract was awarded in April, 1999 with the anticipated
completion of the diversion and transmission plans and specifications by
March 2000. Construction of the diversion and transmission line are
anticipated to start in the summer of 2000 with completion in the summer
of 2001.
RECOMMENDED LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
No legislative action is required for this project.
