The Village of Lake Villa changed its water supply from groundwater to Lake Michigan in 2018. Prior to the connection, the village had two separate water systems: the South System that included a 1 million gallon ground storage tank and a 400,000 gallon water spheroid (Tower A), and the Painted Lakes System that included a 200,000 gallon water spheroid (Tower B). The water supply conversion required that the village connect the two systems with a 6,000 lineal foot 12-inch transmission main. However, since the two water systems had been constructed separately, this connection created a hydraulic issue. The Tower B top capacity elevation was 11 feet higher than Tower A. The initial recommendation to correct this issue was to install an altitude valve in Tower A. This solution created immediate issues with transient pressure surges. A water model and study indicated that pressure transients only occurred when the altitude valve was closed, and Tower A was effectively removed from service. After reviewing all available options, it was recommended that the Tower B overflow elevation be lowered to the same level as Tower A, requiring the removal of an 11-foot section of the single pedestal shaft. This presentation will detail the trials and tribulations of combining two water distribution systems, an exploration into thinking outside the box, issues solved by this project, the extensive preparation required to lower a water spheroid, and footage of the actual separation and rewelding.
After this session, participants will be better able to:
• Model water systems and determine the impact of large water users on small systems.
• Accept “out of the box” thinking when evaluating alternatives.
• Identify water system pressure issues related to varying elevated water tower top capacity lines.
Contributor/Source
Jim Bowles-Superintendent of Water and Sewer, Robert Doeringsfeld-Department Manager
Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
Program Types
CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Primer
Primers are used to educate policymakers about public works roles and responsibilities in public rights of way, the impact of federal workforce development policies on the industry and workforce, and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
Public Works Radio Podcast
Public Works Radio is the official podcast of the American Public Works Association (APWA), bringing the stories behind our communities to life. This podcast shines a spotlight on the people and projects that keep our cities running—humanizing the work and the professionals who make it happen. Each episode dives into a wide range of topics designed to educate and inspire, making public works more visible to everyone.
PWX
PWX session recordings cover a wide variety of topics, including integrating modes of transportation, traffic and transit, construction management, emergency management, engineering and technology, fleet and facilities, management, parks and grounds, snow and ice control, and stormwater/flood control, as well as solid waste, roads and bridges and water/wastewater. PWX sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Reporter Articles
APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
Snow
The Snow Conference session recordings feature public works professionals sharing the latest best practices in managing winter/snow operations more successfully, taking advantage of emerging technologies, understanding and preparing for the challenges ahead, and providing better service to their communities. Snow sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Tech Boxes
A tech box is a PDF take-away that provides information in lists, steps, or defined areas specifically focused on trending technologies.
Virtual Program
Virtual programs are live, interactive educational programs led by top experts in the field who provide timely information or address trending topics within an area. Programs often conclude with an open forum for Q&A.