Council approves concept to upsize Tanner Ditch pipe, city to fund inlets and installation costs

Beaver City Council voted March 24 to approve in concept a partnership with the Canner/Tanner Ditch Company to upsize a section of ditch piping on 300 North from the existing 24-inch to 30-inch pipe and to install inlet structures that would capture street stormwater.

City staff described the plan as replacing open ditch with a piped system from roughly 400 East to 300 North and installing inlet boxes at intersections (northeast corners) to collect additional stormwater. City staff said the inlet boxes and the city-funded upsizing would be paid by the city while the ditch company would proceed with the primary pipe installation under its contract.

Staff discussed two cost scenarios for inlet structures: a concrete box option (higher cost, easier maintenance) and a less-expensive metal riser/collar option. City staff estimated the inlet work in one scenario at roughly $30,000 per unit and said an overall inlet budget could total about $75,000 for a concrete approach; they also said total costs could vary materially depending on pipe material and contractor choices, and later mentioned a possible $50,000 estimate in some circumstances.

Council approved a motion “to approve the concept, upsizing the pipe from 24 to 30 inch and working with Canner Ditch Company to install inlet structures,” with the motion made by Council member Fox and seconded by Council member Webb. Council expressed support for coordinating construction so the city can install inlet structures while the ditch company completes the pipe work in the fall after flows decrease.

City staff will continue coordination with the ditch company and its engineer, prepare cost estimates for the inlet options and report back for budget approval and final contracting steps.