Waterworks continues waterline replacement

Creston Waterworks is getting closer to starting a number of projects, including replacing more of the old waterlines throughout uptown Creston.

The project, which will go to bid and host a public hearing in April, is similar to the water main replacement in the 100, 200 and 300 blocks of North Maple Street last year. General Manager Steve Guthrie said at a previous meeting that the water mains are antique.

The streets at which Creston Waterworks is looking to replace the waterlines include:

- Walnut Street from Fareway west to Sumner Avenue

-Montgomery Street from Cherry Street to Division Street

-Division Street from Townline Road to Adams Street

-Cherry Street from Montgomery Street to Townline Road

The board previously approved spending no more than $339,000 on the design of the work from Garden Associates. In summer 2023, the entire project was estimated at $5.75 million.

The board is also working to replace the remaining lead pipes in Creston Waterworks' service area. A preliminary engineering review regarding this project will be submitted in May.

The Environmental Protection Agency is requiring all lead and galvanized pipes for water service to be replaced over the next 10 years. To help communities comply, the agency is making available an additional $2.6 billion for drinking water infrastructure through the bipartisan infrastructure law. The agency is also awarding $35 million in competitive grants for programs to reduce lead in drinking water. Water utilities are being given three years to research and plan.

The estimated cost for the 468 properties is $2.3 million. Creston Waterworks would be eligible for 0% financing through federal funding. However, some could come through the DNR.

“That will probably take six to 12 months with the DNR before we make that project,” Guthrie said. “It’s possible, not this summer but next summer, we’ll have two projects going side-by-side.”

In other water board news...

Guthrie said of the 3,365 customers Creston Waterworks had in 2024, only 20 of the properties had to be disconnected due to non-payment or rule violations.