Linda Richardson can relate to the pressures the Michigan Department of Transportation experiences every time a large project comes along ? especially when faced with the question, when will things be finished?
The Independence Township director of the Department of Public Works has overseen a $22 million water system upgrade for the past two years, with the bulk of the work happening during the past nine months. She hoped to see the project completed this past October, but many things, including Mother Nature, hindered that goal.
‘It’s such a large project, there are so many little things that happen and add up,? said Richardson. ‘We had to deal with some things taking longer, needing equipment installed we didn’t expect, and then there was the weather. It’s pushed us back.?
Still, Richardson was pleased to announce at the Nov. 15 township board meeting the pieces are falling into place.
The new water main is installed, particularly along Andersonville Road, and water is already flowing. Work crews are currently finishing the exterior and landscaping. In addition, the three emergency inner-connections with Waterford Township’s system are operational.
Depending on the weather, Richardson expects to have the new Deerwood and Deerwood Manors systems up and running this week. Deer Valley is still awaiting some parts, but the system should be activated in December.
The most noticeable upgrade, the water tower clearly visible from I-75, is receiving some final additions and will be filled shortly after the Deerwood systems are turned on.
‘It’s been a very hectic two years, but now that it’s all beginning to be over, it’s been good,? said Linda Richardson, director of Independence Township Department of Public Works. ‘I think it will be good for us.?
Due to new state regulations, Independence Township was required to upgrade the water system; however, Richardson expects to see plenty of benefits from the project including better water quality, ability to service more customers and a higher water capacity.
‘This system will be a little more maintenance and cost,? said Richardson, ‘but everything balances out with the improved quality and additional customers.?
The township is paying for the $22 million project through three accounts:
? Just over $18 million is financed through the Drinking Water Revolving Fund, a 20 year low-interest loan program;
? this past April, the board approved an additional $2 million, 20-year bond; and
? the township’s own water fund paying the remaining balance.
Richardson informed township officials at the board meeting that residents will receive a letter explain the transition process with the water system and any minor problems they may encounter, such as red water.