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Council OKs $2.226 million bond to replace Indian Hill pump station components
Summary
The Newburyport City Council approved a $2.226 million loan order to replace pumps, motors and drives at the Indian Hill pump station, citing end‑of‑life equipment and alignment with a planned treatment plant; work is expected to begin in the off season and last six to eight months.
The Newburyport City Council voted to approve a $2.226 million loan order to replace aging pumps, motors and drives at the Indian Hill pump station.
Councilor Zed, who presented the committee recommendation, said the pump station currently handles roughly 6,000 gallons per minute and that the key mechanical components are at or near end of life, creating a near‑term reliability risk. He said the project is at 100% design and out to bid, with an expected six‑to‑eight‑month construction timeline beginning in the off season so users should not experience service disruptions.
Water department staff and the committee discussed an owner's project manager (OPM) requirement under state procurement law and agreed the OPM can provide quarterly updates to the council on schedule and budget. Council members also asked about contingency planning; staff said the estimate includes about a 20% contingency.
The motion passed by roll call. Councilors approved the loan order after committee review that included examination of pump sizing alternatives, coordination with a proposed new treatment plant and confirmation that the work can be staged so at least two pumps remain in service during construction.
The council's approval authorizes the bond against the water enterprise. The city expects to begin procurement and construction planning immediately; staff said further project updates, including budget tracking from the OPM, will be provided as the work advances.
