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Missoula: replacing 1963 Clark Fork sewer pipe could cost $5–$11 million, city says
Summary
City reporting, citing a city water engineer, warned that a reinforced concrete sewer pipeline installed in 1963 under the Clark Fork River has damaged rubble-cap protection and that replacement options could cost an estimated $5–$11 million; the state may help fund the work as an infrastructure improvement.
Local reporting on Wake Up Missoula summarized city-engineer findings that a reinforced concrete sewer pipe installed in 1963 beneath the Clark Fork River has broken rubble-cap elements and requires significant work. The host cited city water engineer Logan McGinnis for the cost range: "the cost could be anywhere between $5 to $11,000,000," depending on whether the city installs a siphon or a pump system.
Problem and scale: The line carries raw sewage from the south side into the treatment plant; parts of the rubble cap that once protected the pipe have broken off, raising concern about potential impacts to river water quality and system reliability.
Funding and timeline: City staff said the project likely qualifies as a major infrastructure improvement and that state assistance may be available to help cover costs. Officials estimated the project could be completed within the next two years, contingent on chosen approach and funding.
Why it matters: The pipe services a major portion of the city's sewer flow; failure or prolonged degradation could raise water-quality concerns and require emergency repairs at higher cost.
Attribution note: The host reported the engineer's estimate and technical description rather than quoting the engineer directly on-air; the article uses phrasing "according to city water engineer Logan McGinnis" to reflect that reporting.
Next steps: City staff will assess replacement options and potential funding partners; no formal council vote or contract award was reported during the program.
Sources: City water engineer Logan McGinnis (as reported on Wake Up Missoula); host summary of CAPEX reporting.
