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7.0 (Nater Distribution System <br />This report analyzes the water distribution system layout based on approximate flows and a well -looped <br />system, but does not include a hydraulic analysis of systems and pressure zones. The existing <br />distribution systems were evaluated based on watermain size, percentage of unaccounted water, and <br />operational capabilities. <br />7.1 Water System Interconnects <br />Individual city distribution systems should have multiple interconnections with other cities to provide <br />backup supply water in case of an emergency. This is one of the main benefits of the joint utility. The <br />joint system would have more interconnections and larger diameter connections. Joint system <br />interconnections would be part of the trunk system interconnecting the member communities rather <br />than the small diameter pipe connections at the perimeter of the systems that currently exist between <br />some communities in the study area. This significantly strengthens the ability to transfer water between <br />communities and enhances the community's resiliency in the face of catastrophic events where a <br />portion of one community may be damaged by a tornado or other significant event that would otherwise <br />limit its ability to produce, treat, store or distribute water to its constituents. <br />The size and location of the interconnections should be planned out in a future study using water <br />distribution system computer modeling. If done correctly the modeling should allow for a net reduction <br />in the length of large diameter main since approximately a quarter to half of the larger diameter outer <br />loops would be eliminated in the growing communities through interconnections. <br />7.2 Watermain Size <br />Existing watermain size and layout is depicted in Figure A4. For the purposes of this report, it is <br />assumed that existing watermain is able to provide adequate flow to meet current needs, and there are <br />no significant hydraulic issues within the existing systems. Watermain will need to be upgraded to <br />accommodate increased flow across municipal boundaries if cities are connected. <br />7.3 Watermain Layout <br />Watermain layout was analyzed geographically for its ability to distribute water throughout the six -city <br />region and for its ability to provide looping. The piping network was not analyzed for its ability to provide <br />required fire flows, however this analysis should also be included as part of future hydraulic modeling <br />for detailed design. <br />Watermain recommended for the development of a joint utility is shown in Figure A6. Future watermain <br />for individual development (according to cities' comprehensive plans) is shown in Figure A8. The <br />location of some watermain intended for future development as shown in Figure A8 was changed in <br />Figure A6 to provide connections between the cities. These location changes are merely to illustrate <br />one possible layout for connecting the cities. Were a joint utility created, the location of future <br />watermain would be optimized to best suit the cities' development needs. Cities should work together to <br />identify the layout that works best for them. <br />There are several existing interconnections between the six cities. Additional large diameter <br />interconnections between the existing water systems will be needed to provide better connectivity <br />between all cities in the Joint Utility. The details of these interconnections play a large part in the costs <br />associated with a Joint Utility. For this effort a simple high level approach was taken. This joint utility <br />cost is estimated to be the same as individual 2030 trunk watermain costs, but the future watermain <br />would be in slightly different locations or slightly larger in diameter. <br />Joint Water Utility Feasibility Study 25 <br />