City Council reviews water master plan and infrastructure investment amidst rising costs

Orem City Council's recent meeting on March 11, 2025, highlighted significant updates to the city's water, sewer, and stormwater management plans, emphasizing the need for infrastructure improvements amid rising costs and changing demographics.

A key focus was the city's water supply and conservation efforts. Officials reported that Orem has successfully managed its water resources, projecting sufficient supply to meet future demands even as the population is expected to grow by only 10% over the next few years. The city is on track to complete a new 10 million-gallon water storage tank and additional wells, which will enhance water pressure and availability, particularly during peak usage times.

However, the meeting also addressed the challenges posed by inflation, which has doubled infrastructure construction costs over the past five years. This economic strain necessitates a reevaluation of funding strategies for ongoing and future projects. City leaders acknowledged that while the water system is currently in good shape, significant investments will be required to maintain and upgrade aging infrastructure.

In terms of sewer management, projections indicate that Orem's current water reclamation facility can accommodate future growth without the need for major expansions. However, ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation of existing assets will be crucial.

Stormwater management was another critical topic, with plans to phase out outdated canals and improve drainage systems to protect water quality. The city aims to eliminate certain groundwater sumps that pose risks to well water, balancing environmental protection with cost considerations.

Overall, the council's discussions underscored a proactive approach to managing Orem's utilities, ensuring that the city remains well-equipped to handle future demands while addressing the financial realities of infrastructure maintenance and improvement.