Why Dig When You Don't Need To? A Non-Invasive Pipe Condition Assessment Licensing Solutions For Water Utilities

The City and Borough of Juneau (City) produces and distributes 1.2 billion gallons of water annually by drawing from separate and redundant ground- and surface water sources. Around 50 pump stations deliver potable water via a network of over 180 miles of pipe, directing into a series of reservoirs that in turn feed thousands of hydrants and terminal water distribution connections. Most of the water for downtown, in the hospital area, and on Douglas Island comes from Last Chance Basin aquifer (ground water). All areas north of the hospital primarily receive surface water out of Salmon Creek Water Filtration Plant.

The City's public drinking water system is one of over 153,000 similar public systems that provide potable water across the U.S. Approximately every two minutes, a pipe breaks in the U.S. amounting to around 2.1 trillion gallons of water lost every year. Since most of the nation’s infrastructure was built between the 1890s and 1940s, it is not that surprising. The City of Juneau has 1-2 pipe breaks per year, at a repair cost of $200-$1,000 per foot.

The City is undergoing a replacement program of its water mains to maintain reliable and consistent service to their customers. “Pipe replacement decisions are made based on a comprehensive look at break history, age, location, and ePulse results”, said Abner Miller, Project Manager, City of Juneau.