Plevna hears engineering options to fix failing clay-tile sewers; Brosz favors trenchless lining

Brosz Engineering presented a preliminary engineering report (PER) framework at a public input meeting on April 13 as the town seeks construction funding to address failing clay-tile sanitary sewer lines. "Ultimately this pipe is failing," Rylan Limesand of Brosz said, citing video inspection showing fractures throughout the system. The PER is funded by a planning grant and is intended to support a construction grant application due May 19, 2026.

Brosz outlined two principal options. A full replacement would remove and replace piping and manholes and likely require boring a new section beneath the railroad tracks and highway to avoid open trenching in those crossings. The alternative is cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, a trenchless technique that inserts a liner into the existing pipe and steam-cures epoxy to form a new inner pipe. "This is typically a more cost effective option," Limesand said, but he cautioned that some segments are unlinable — where pieces are missing, cracks are too large, or roots intrude — and would require excavation and spot replacement.

Limesand said manholes appeared to be "in very good condition" and can often be rehabilitated with an internal cement lining rather than full replacement, reducing overall construction needs. The PER will list options, costs, and prioritization so the town can submit a construction funding application by the May 19 deadline. Mayor Gary Thielen and council members heard the presentation and had an opportunity to question the engineering team; the project’s next public meeting is scheduled for May 4, 2026.