Long Beach council approves replacement of two sand-gravel filters at water plant; $1 million grant offsets cost

The Long Beach City Council on Tuesday authorized a contract for the replacement of two sand-gravel filters at the city’s water treatment facility, awarding the work to the lowest responsible bidder, Benson Contracting, after competitive bids.

City staff said the city solicited bids to either rehabilitate or replace two of the facility’s ten sand-gravel filters. The project was bid with two options; staff said only one contractor provided a rehabilitation price, which was roughly $1.7 million for rehabilitation — more expensive than replacement — and that H2M, the project consultant, produced a cost estimate of about $1,250,000 for replacement.

Staff told the council the tanks were first constructed around 1970 and are roughly 52 years old. One tank is currently out of service; officials said the two tanks selected for replacement will be the out-of-service tank and the next tank judged by condition. The city said much of the work will be paid for with a $1,000,000 grant the city has been awarded.

Council members asked for comparisons to similar municipal projects and for the consultant’s estimate; staff said H2M used local rates and recent bidding to form the estimate. Discussion covered the fabrication and material costs; staff said new tanks are iron, and conversation noted stainless steel or cladded vessels would be substantially more expensive.

The council voted to adopt the resolution; recorded yes votes included Council members Bridal, Lester, Reinhart, Vice President Miyamura and President Finn.

Staff said as additional funding becomes available the city will schedule replacement of remaining tanks; the immediate plan is to replace the out-of-service tank and the next-most-worn unit.