City of Shawnee

PROJECT PURPOSE

The project will address critical water and sewer infrastructure needs for the City of Shawnee. The project will replace over 7,500 linear feet of sewer lines and more than 25,000 linear feet of water lines. This will have a direct benefit to 742 services . There will be a direct benefit with improved water lines servicing the regional hospital (SSM Health Complex), the Pottawatomie County Jail, multiple dialysis centers, and assisted living homes. Water line replacements will also benefit customers in Meeker, OK, and customers of the Pottawatomie County Development Authority (water provider). There is also an economic benefit with improved reliability for the City of Shawnee?s Industrial Park.

EVIDENCE

The 2021 severe cold winter storms exposed the weakest points of Shawnee's water and sewer systems. Although emergency repairs were made, there are sections of the water and sewer distribution systems that need complete replacement. Providing these critical services will ensure that individuals can take basic preventative measures against the pandemic including such as washing their hands. Additionally, by ensuring that these critical services are maintained, it reduces the need for individuals to leave their home to fulfill basic hygienic needs.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

In fighting the pandemic, it is easy to take for granted access to basic health necessities like drinking water and sanitary sewer. When those services are disrupted, the people impacted have a reduced ability to adhere to CDC guidelines. This project will help vulnerable populations at increased risk for severe illness including the elderly, people with medical conditions, and pregnant and recently pregnant people. Portions of the project area also include two qualified census tracts with low-income households. When a sewer line backs up or a water line breaks, those most at risk often have the greatest barriers to receiving emergency assistance. If they are fortunate, they can stay with family or friends while the repairs are made. If there is emergency financial assistance, they may be able to take shelter at a motel or other place of temporary housing. Commonly though, they must make do with what they have which may include going to public places to fulfill basic hygienic needs. In either case, the individual must leave their home and risk further exposure to COVID-19 and its variants.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

The City of Shawnee is experienced with receiving federal and state funds through various grant programs. The City has internal financial controls in place to ensure compliance with funding requirements and meet regular reporting deadlines. To ensure that the project progresses on time and that construction standards are met, the City will contract with a Construction Manager. The Construction Manager will be responsible for monitoring the project, providing daily oversight of the construction work, and tracking programmatic data. The City will also hold regular project meetings with the Construction Manager, Contractor, City Engineer, and Public Works Director.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding