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Council members ask about Ogden Canyon property purchases and pipeline constructability
Summary
Councilors asked staff to explain recent purchases of canyon parcels tied to a multi-inch waterline project, the city's ownership of a historic rail right‑of‑way, and how the city plans to work with private property owners on encroachments and constructability challenges.
During council business on June 3, members asked why Ogden City acquired properties in Ogden Canyon and how the purchases relate to a multi-inch waterline replacement project.
A council member said constituents had asked about the purchase of the Mike Bachman property near the water-treatment plant and where city money came from. Staff responded that the purchases came from the water utility fund and were strategic acquisitions to stage work and protect critical infrastructure related to the 24-inch and 36-inch waterlines that convey water through the canyon.
Staff described the canyon as constrained in places; where the line sits close to private structures, constructability becomes difficult. “That 36-inch waterline is probably 30 feet and equal in height to their second story bathroom window,” a staff member said, explaining why property acquisition and careful staging are necessary.
Council members asked about the city’s historic rights to the old Bamburger rail corridor through the canyon. Staff said Ogden City obtained rights for the old rail line in 1932 but noted the ownership and corridor footprint vary by segment; staff said they are working through encroachments and other constraints along the corridor.
Staff also noted other technical issues, such as private septic and drain lines that may cross or interact with the new alignment, requiring property-owner coordination and careful engineering. To reduce construction risk, the city has engaged a construction-management/general-contractor (CMGC) approach with an experienced contractor to assist in planning and buildability.
No formal action was taken; council members asked to be kept informed about property acquisitions, right-of-way status and the project timeline as design and permitting progress.
