Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Hydro Plant topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Hydro plant work continues; pump relocation bid comes in about four times estimate, project paused
Summary
Staff reported progress on generator and turbine work at the hydro plant but said a single bid to relocate a pump arrived significantly higher than expected; the board heard staff will revisit options including keeping the pump where it is or installing a self-cleaning unit.
City staff told the Environmental Services Utility Board on Jan. 21 that work on the hydro plant is proceeding but that one construction bid for relocating a pump came in far above expectations, prompting staff to pause that portion of the project.
Why it matters: The hydro facility's reliability affects water and pump operations tied to the city's utility services. Choosing whether to relocate a pump or adjust design details affects construction cost and future maintenance access.
Project status: Staff said the assessment of generator 2 is nearly complete and that turbine blade casting and control-system components remain in progress. The controls work and electronics are on schedule.
Pump bid issue: The board was told a recent bid for installing and moving the pump arrived at roughly four times the expected price. Because only one bid was received and the single proposal was substantially higher than estimates, staff said they will reject that bid and re-evaluate options. Possible approaches include keeping the pump in its current downstream location and constructing a safer access/hoisting method, or moving the pump and including additional platform and piping work to improve service access.
Staff alternatives and next steps: Staff suggested alternatives such as installing a self-cleaning pump to reduce the need for frequent physical access, adding an access hoist on the downstream side, or reissuing a revised bid package. The board was notified that the team will reconvene, evaluate options and likely return with a recommendation after further review.
Context and costs: No final construction contract was awarded at the meeting; staff emphasized the need to rework the scope or seek other bidders before committing to a high-cost installation.
