April 8, 2013

Updating Procurement Policies Provides Water Utilities with Cost-Savings, Greater Value

Rising water and sewer rates are not keeping pace with the overwhelming investments required in U.S. underground infrastructure over the next 20 years – which is $2.28 trillion dollars according to the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Many municipalities, however, are addressing this daunting challenge by returning to traditional American approaches like fair competition and open bidding. Inevitably, this leads not only to cost-savings but greater value for taxpayers and utilities alike. Take the story of Louisville, NY which not only saved significantly on its water project but will be able to bring service to more of its citizens as a result.


Lower Cost, Better Performance Reasons Why Louisville, NY Chooses PVC Pipe

Louisville, NY did its homework: “We researched ductile iron and PVC, and it was unanimous to go with PVC,” says Town Supervisor Larry Legault. PVC pipe’s lower cost wasn’t the only reason for the decision either. Its superior hydraulics as well as easier installation and repair were also cited as key reasons the project went PVC. The local engineering firm, C2AE Engineering, was also supportive of the decision, mentioning growing use of PVC pipe in many new water projects. Taxpayers received greater value for their dollars over ductile iron pipe since PVC pipe is corrosion-proof, which reduces replacement as well as operations and maintenance costs. But perhaps most significantly, two additional water projects will get completed in Louisville, NY this year as a result of the Town Board’s decision to go with PVC pipe. Click here to read.


Competition for Water and Sewer Pipe Generating Savings for Municipalities

In his latest article in WaterWorld, “Asset Management: Using Alternative Materials to Address Replacement Cost and Maintenance Concerns,” Water Finance Research Foundation president and water industry expert Gregory M. Baird argues that open competition for piping is a new asset management trend that is generating cost savings for water utilities. Competition for piping is critical because according to the EPA 60 percent of the total cost for water and sewer projects lies in the underground infrastructure. This makes use of non-corroding PVC pipe a game changer because corrosion is eliminated as a failure mechanism, resulting in substantial long-term savings for municipalities. Click here to read.

Regards,

Bruce Hollands
Executive Director | Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association
2711 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1000 | Dallas, TX 75234
T. 972.243.3902 ext. 1019 | C. 214.244.9202 | F. 972.243.3907
www.uni-bell.org