City of Stillwater

PROJECT PURPOSE

Stillwater is the regional water provider for 3 city owned systems, 6 wholesale systems, and one tribal system. In total, the system serves more than 70,000 Oklahomans over a 902 square mile area. Stillwater also has a mutual aid agreement with Oklahoma State University to provide each other with backup water supply. Stillwater?s water infrastructure including the water treatment plant and raw water delivery system are over 40 years old. The system lacks the capacity for growth and the area served is projected to grow from 70,000 citizens to 120,000 in the next 25 years. The 36 mile pipeline and the treatment plant are in poor condition and a system failure or natural disaster could be catastrophic, completely interrupting service to all of the people served by the systems that rely on this infrastructure. We are developing an action plan and comprehensive solution to rehabilitate and expand the raw water delivery and water treatment systems that considers the needs of the growing community for the next 50 years.

EVIDENCE

In addition to the age of the system, over the past decade evidence of the system?s deterioration via inspections and actual failures as well as increased maintenance and repairs have made it imperative that Stillwater renovate and upgrade the raw water delivery and treatment systems. Currently the raw water pump station capacity is less than the capacity of the treatment plant and the pipeline is experiencing a number of leaks. Population is projected to continue growing and will exceed the capacity of the treatment plant.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

We need to provide an equitable service for all citizens and entities served by this system including those who are already struggling due to everyday life and the impacts of poverty. Stillwater has a much higher poverty rate than is average for Oklahoma. Oklahomans who were already living in poverty and need this system, were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. We are aware through contacts with local non-profits and a variety of programs of a greatly increased demand for services including access to food, housing, and utility assistance. Good access to water is important for every citizen especially those in marginalized communities. Citizens living at or near poverty don?t have the resources to secure alternatives to the public water supply if the current system experiences a significant failure.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

We are working with engineers to determine the options and scope to meet the needs. We are doing extensive professional evaluation and testing of the raw water delivery system and treatment plant. Investigations to date have defined the need. Capacity of a new or renovated system will be a defined part of the project before construction begins. City Staff has held several public study sessions with the City Council to discuss funding and options. Staff has extensive experience managing engineering, construction, and grants and ensuring compliance and proper documentation. Stillwater has the capacity and experience to successfully complete this project.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma