A persistent water main issue plaguing Washington Community High School and surrounding neighborhoods is set to be resolved this summer. The Washington City Council has approved a bid to replace a 700-foot section of aging water main under Bondurant Street, a project that has caused numerous disruptions, including boil orders and school closures.
Key Takeaways
- A $270,000 contract was awarded to PIPCO for the replacement of a 700-foot water main.
- The project came in significantly under the engineer’s estimate.
- The water main has caused frequent disruptions for Washington Community High School and local residents.
Project Details and Cost Savings
The Washington City Council greenlit a bid from Peoria-based PIPCO for approximately $270,000 to replace the troublesome water main. This figure is notably lower than the engineer’s estimate of around $400,000, representing a substantial cost saving for the city. Six companies vied for the project, a high number for such an undertaking, according to City Engineer Dennis Carr. Carr expressed satisfaction with the competitive bidding process and the selection of PIPCO, a local firm with a proven track record.
Impact on the Community
School officials have welcomed the news, citing the frequent disruptions caused by the old water main. WCHS Superintendent Kyle Freeman noted that in his 12 years at the school, there have been "about a half-dozen times" where boil orders or school closures were necessary due to breaks on Bondurant Street. Alderperson Brandon Moss echoed these sentiments, mentioning that his children, who have attended the high school, have missed school days because of these issues.
Other City Council Business
In addition to the water main replacement, the council addressed several other matters:
- A building permit was issued for Washington Senior Living on Newcastle Road, an area recently affected by a water main break.
- The new Get Yourself Motivated [GYM] building on Cummings Lane will feature Rush Bowls, a new acai and smoothie drive-thru business.
- The annual "Cop on a Rooftop" fundraiser for Special Olympics is scheduled for May 15.
- Approved contracts for intersection safety studies, park and storm sewer truckline engineering, accounting software maintenance, and the purchase of plow trucks and equipment.
- Approved the purchase of an asphalt roller and a crack sealing machine.
- Decided to dispose of surplus property at City Hall through auction and donation.
- Made several appointments and reappointments to city boards and commissions, with a vacancy remaining on the Economic Development Commission.
