TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Allison Swisher, Director of Public Utilities
SUBJECT:
title
Approve Payment for Emergency Repairs to the Des Plaines River Crossing Water Main to Airy’s Inc. in the Amount of $573,670.69
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BACKGROUND:
On September 6, 2024, the City’s water system experienced a large water leak causing low pressure in the downtown pressure zone. City staff investigated the leak and determined one of the 16-inch water lines under the Des Plaines River that feeds from the eastside low pressure zone to the westside high pressure zone was broken. While turning valves in the water distribution system for repair of the initial water main break, a key isolation valve broke in the open position, which prevented Staff from isolating the break.
Airy’s Inc. was called upon to assist the City with this water main emergency. Airy’s Inc. was selected as the contractor to assist the City because Airy’s Inc. has the equipment and manpower to perform a wide variety of specialized work such as line stops and insertion valves. Airy’s Inc. also has prior experience assisting the City in similar emergency water main situations.
When the tunnel was accessed to make the emergency repairs it was discovered the tunnel was leaking, causing the tunnel to fill with water. City Staff directed Airy’s Inc. to install a pump in the tunnel as well as to make the necessary repairs to stop the infiltration of water. The Public Service Committee will review this matter.
CONCLUSION:
Airy’s Inc., over the course of multiple days, successfully completed the following tasks: dewatered the tunnel, installed a 16” line stop, installed a new 16” isolation valve, installed a 20” EZ valve, installed a 16” EZ valve, repaired the 16” water main break, provided a 14” and 16” EZ valve to be stored for future emergency use, installed a pump system with access hatch, and completed leak repairs to the tunnel. The total cost of the emergency repair was $573,670.69.
Funds will be charged to the Water and Sewer Operating Fund / Field Operations / Water / Repairs (Org 50080012, Object 524300, $573,670.69).
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Based on the above, it is recommended that the Mayor and City Council approve payment for the emergency repairs to the Des Plaines River Crossing Water Main, in the amount of $573,670.69, to Airy’s Inc.
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