Emporia’s Public Works Department is getting close to finalizing some long-range planning on the city’s underground water line network.
Director Dean Grant says staffers are reviewing the results of a water model survey as it finalizes potential projects for consideration by the state’s revolving loan fund. Grant says the final price tag could be around $15 million.
Specific project areas aren’t being divulged yet. City commissioners will get an official look at potential work zones by September.
The model is a computer software program developed by BG Consultants. It uses information from the city’s Geographic Information System, or GIS, and field observations.
Meanwhile, Grant says work could begin soon on a project to enhance water supply for Newman Regional Health. Water main work will begin soon on West 12th between Grand and Chestnut. Grant says this is important because this will bring a modern line to an area that has had issues, including a break near C of E Drive earlier this month and near the hospital’s east entrance this past spring. Grant says this will let water get to the hospital from both north and south.
Bids will likely open July 27. The demolition and construction timetable is currently pending but could start by early October.
