City plans upgrades for aging water infrastructure and treatment facility

The Gardner Capital Improvement Planning Committee convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical infrastructure needs and upcoming projects related to the city's water system. The meeting focused on several key agenda items, primarily concerning the maintenance and upgrades of water facilities.

The first topic addressed was the need for dam repairs, which are planned for the upcoming fiscal year. The committee also discussed the elevated water tank, built in the 1980s, which requires cleaning. The challenge lies in taking the tank offline while maintaining adequate water pressure for the system. This cleaning is deemed necessary and will be prioritized in the near future.

Next, the discussion shifted to treatment facility upgrades. The upgrades primarily involve replacing internal pumps and other equipment. While these upgrades may not be classified as capital improvements, they are essential and will be included as ticket items in the budget to ensure funds are available if urgent repairs are needed.

The Pearly Brook pump station, located on Clark Street, was also highlighted. Built in the late 1960s, it is due for an upgrade to enhance its functionality. Additionally, the committee noted the ongoing need for water main replacements and the eventual replacement of water meters, which have not been updated since 2001. The replacement of these meters is crucial for accurate readings and could potentially increase revenue through more precise billing.

In terms of prioritization, the committee identified three main projects: the replacement of the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), the roof repairs, and the water meter replacements. While the elevated water tank cleaning is important, it may be deferred for another year due to budget constraints.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the urgency of these infrastructure improvements, emphasizing the need for timely action to ensure the reliability and efficiency of Gardner's water system. The committee plans to continue monitoring these projects and will provide updates in future meetings.