iron and asphalt produced from recycled source materials, the use of American Iron and Steel, stormwater management on the construction site to reduce the impact on surrounding wetlands, and the restoration and expansion of pollinator habitats to offset the effects on local wildlife. One of the Program’s most significant achievements is its ability to maintain a net zero impact on Lake Michigan. Twenty-three miles of force main, known as the “Return Flow Pipeline,” with a pumping facility at Waukesha’s Clean Water Plant, facilitate this process. Using environmentally friendly materials and advanced technologies allowed the team to minimize the environmental footprint while keeping costs down and delivering a project designed to last 100 years. These efforts saved the community an estimated $40 million. The benefits to the public and surrounding Great Lakes area will extend far into the future through the Great Water Alliance Program. Accomplishments & Accreditations • National Recognition Award, American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), 2024 • Engineering Excellence Award, ACEC of Wisconsin, 2024 (Best of State) • Project of the Year, Wisconsin Section of the American Water Works Association, 2024.
Background The Waukesha Water Utility (WWU) provides essential water treatment and distribution for a city of 72,000 residents, but they faced a critical issue with a depleting primary water source. The Great Water Alliance Program is a pioneering initiative to solve this critical water issue for the city of Waukesha by diverting water from nearby freshwater giant Lake Michigan. The multi-year, multimillion-dollar Program required adept navigation of complex regulatory landscapes and an exacting approach to balance long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness for the community’s benefit. Key challenges included transitioning to the new water supply and relocating pumping stations. With 90% of the pipeline located outside its served community, coordination and extensive permitting across seven communities, two counties, and multiple federal agencies was crucial to keeping the project on schedule. The project included 36 miles of pipeline, two pumping stations, two eight-million-gallon ground storage reservoirs, a one-million-gallon water tower, a return flow pumping station, and a new outfall facility. Impact The Program incorporated sustainable practices to protect the environment and sustain the Great Lakes watershed. Key achievements included the use of environmentally friendly materials such as ductile
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WINTER 2024 csengineermag.com
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