Repairs and upgrades to the city of Lewiston’s antiquated water system could cost upwards of $42 million.
The amount unveiled Monday during the City Council’s work session covers all fixes, ranging from the Clearwater River intake to the nearby treatment plant and the city’s distribution network. Consulting firm Mountain Waterworks is finalizing the city’s water master plan to help guide the process.
City engineers’ three-part strategy includes improving the reliability of booster stations and wells to prevent any disruptions should the treatment plant shut down for repair; a new well and reservoir to better serve the higher elevation area between the bluff above downtown to the Lewiston Center Mall; and the complete rebuild of the treatment plant.
The consulting firm says the treatment plant only has four years of useful life at the most, with more than three-fourths of the plant in unsatisfactory condition. Lewiston officials say the project can be done in phases, and consultants suggest addressing the highest priorities first, including the $25 million treatment plant rebuild.
State loans through the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality could also lessen the costs, as they offer far lower interest rates than the municipal bond market, and provide more flexibility in accessing the funds.
A public comment period on the plan likely will be scheduled for January. (Lewiston Tribune)
