Kevin Brian, HDR Engineering, Inc.
Michael Meyer, Louisville Water Company
The Louisville Water Company (LWC) was founded in 1854, one of the oldest water utilities in the United States. Is driven by growing need for a reliable and safe water supply to Metro Louisville and surrounding five counties. The journey begins at the Crescent Hill WTP where water is treated and prepared for distribution. Large diameter transmission mains serve as conduits to provide the water flow west to downtown areas and southward to the Cardinal Hill Reservoir. The 4-mile segment of the 48-inch transmission main running along Kentucky St, Oak St, Glenmary Ave has been in use since the 1890s and is considered a critical conveyance pipeline for maintaining reliable flow and pressure during high water demands. The pipeline, at 133 years old, has exceeded its expected asset life. Increased occurrences of pipeline breaks and leaks have prompted LWC to prioritize this rehabilitation project. Spanning the historic area of Old Louisville, which is bordered by established neighborhoods, businesses, and park areas, and crossing Beargrass Creek, I-65, and CSX RR, the project presents numerous challenges. Since the 1890s, the installation of storm and sanitary sewers, underground utilities, and trolley lines has been carried out near and above the 48-inch cast iron main, making the rehabilitation difficult. Collaborative efforts among the owner, engineer, and contractor were crucial in formulating a cost-effective design solution that minimized environmental impacts, disruption to both the neighborhood and traffic flow. This involved devising phased solutions to limit the duration of the transmission being out of service within the 6-month off-peak period. This presentation will cover elements of the initial engineering assessment, engagement with stakeholders and communication strategies, final design solutions, and construction challenges.