Lebanon updates water and wastewater projects amid infrastructure challenges

The Lebanon City Council meeting on March 12, 2025, focused on critical updates regarding the city's water, wastewater, and storm drainage systems. City staff presented ongoing projects and future plans aimed at improving infrastructure and addressing maintenance challenges.

In the water system segment, officials highlighted the importance of replacing undersized and leaking water mains. The city has produced over 528 million gallons of water this year and maintains 88.7 miles of distribution lines. Staff emphasized the need for immediate attention to leaking mains and undersized pipes, with an average annual funding allowing for the replacement of approximately 2,500 to 3,000 feet of line. Upcoming projects include the installation of mixers in reservoirs to enhance water quality and several waterline replacements tied to road construction projects.

The wastewater system update revealed that the city has treated around 835 million gallons of sewage so far this year. Staff noted ongoing issues with aging infrastructure, particularly failing aeration mixers and increasing sewer line failures. The city plans to replace about 2,000 to 2,500 feet of sewer mainline annually, which currently results in a lengthy replacement cycle of around 170 years. Upcoming projects include a sewer lining project to reduce infiltration and several replacements coinciding with road reconstruction efforts.

In the storm drainage system discussion, officials reported on the management of 63 miles of storm drainage mains and 52 miles of open channels. The limited funding for capital projects allows for only about 1,500 feet of mainline replacement every two to three years. Upcoming projects include improvements on Willow Street and Second Street, as well as catch basin installations as part of the Grant Street waterline replacement.

The meeting also addressed the city's response to recent environmental fines, clarifying that the city would not incur direct financial penalties but would engage in a project with the San Am Watershed Council to address compliance issues.

Overall, the council's discussions underscored the city's commitment to upgrading its water, wastewater, and storm drainage systems while navigating funding challenges and infrastructure needs. The next steps involve continuing these projects and seeking additional funding to enhance operational efficiency and service quality for Lebanon residents.