City prioritizes cast iron pipe replacement amid soil movement issues

The Utility Policy Committee of Kalamazoo convened on April 10, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure issues, particularly focusing on the aging cast iron water pipes in the city. The meeting highlighted the challenges posed by soil movement and the brittleness of older cast iron pipes, which have led to an increase in main breaks.

The discussion began with an overview of the city's strategy for replacing cast iron pipes, particularly those installed post-World War II, which are noted for their thinner walls and higher susceptibility to corrosion. The committee emphasized the importance of an asset management approach to ensure that replacement projects are comprehensive and sustainable, aiming to prevent future disruptions.

Key projects were reviewed, including significant street upgrades on White's Bridal, Westage, and Rance, where main breaks had previously been frequent. The good news reported was that these areas did not experience any main breaks in the past year, indicating the effectiveness of the replacement efforts.

The committee also noted that the city transitioned to ductile iron pipes in 1964, which have shown a much better service record compared to the older cast iron pipes. This transition has contributed to improved reliability in the water distribution system.

In closing, the committee acknowledged the substantial financial commitment required for ongoing infrastructure improvements, estimating approximately $511 million worth of work over the next five years. This figure underscores the city's dedication to enhancing its water infrastructure and ensuring long-term service reliability for the community.