Wright Pierce digitizes asset management data for city's wastewater treatment upgrades

In a recent meeting of the Fall River Sewer Commission, city officials gathered to discuss significant advancements in asset management and infrastructure upgrades. The atmosphere was charged with optimism as they explored the integration of new technologies aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the city’s wastewater treatment facilities.

At the heart of the discussion was the transition from outdated asset management software to a more robust system known as Utility Cloud. This shift, facilitated by the engineering firm Wright Pierce, aims to digitize and streamline the management of over 60,000 data points related to the city’s sewer infrastructure. The officials expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing process of tagging and cataloging assets, which includes everything from pumps to valves, ensuring that essential components are easily identifiable and maintainable.

One key feature of the new system is its ability to generate detailed dimensional data, allowing staff to measure and navigate the facilities with precision. This capability is expected to significantly improve maintenance workflows, enabling quicker responses to issues that could disrupt operations. The integration of mobile technology, such as iPhones for field staff, further enhances accessibility to real-time data, making it easier for maintenance teams to log repairs and track asset histories.

Commission members acknowledged the importance of this initiative, noting that it not only modernizes the city’s infrastructure management but also positions Fall River for future growth. The discussions highlighted a collaborative effort, with Wright Pierce assisting in the identification and digitization of assets, supported by grants from the Department of Environmental Protection.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed confidence that by the end of summer, all assets would be linked within the Utility Cloud system. This ambitious goal reflects a commitment to improving the city’s wastewater management capabilities and ensuring that the infrastructure can meet the demands of the future. With a ten-year partnership in place, the city is poised to benefit from ongoing investments in its essential services, paving the way for a more efficient and responsive sewer system.