Waterline Replacement Project

Water distribution systems are large complex networks that represent the vast majority of the physical infrastructure for water systems and serve as the final barrier against contamination from external or internal sources such as microbial growth or corrosion within the system. 

Key reasons for replacing water distribution lines include:

  • Deterioration and Aging - over time pipes can corrode, crack and weaken due to exposure to elements like water pressure, ground movement, freezing and thawing cycles that lead to leaks and breaks.
  • Water Quality Issues - damaged pipes can introduce contaminants like bacteria, sediment and other particles into the drinking water supplied to consumers.
  • Pressure Fluctuations - deteriorating pipes can cause inconsistent water pressure, impacting water flow and fire safety. Sudden starting or stopping of a pump, closing or opening a hydrant too quickly or sudden starting and stopping of water usage by a large customer also known as water hammer. For every 1 ft per second in flow velocity change, the pressure within a water pipe can change by 43.3 psi.
  • Cost Effectiveness - reducing emergency repairs and water loss due to leaks. Ensures a consistent supply of clean drinking water and minimizes disruptions to the consumer and operations of the water system.
  • Public Health Protection - maintaining a reliable and clean water distribution system is crucial for safeguarding public health.

Locations for Waterline Replacement

The 2025 Waterline Replacement Project includes three main areas: 

  • Westlake Community
  • 136th Avenue
  • Lowell Blvd. & W 136th Avenue Pressure Regulating Valve Vault

Westlake Community

Replace the existing 12-inch waterline with a new 12-inch waterline in Westlake Drive from S Princess Circle to Grove Way/W 134th Place. The total length of the waterline to be replaced is approximately 4,900 feet. Additionally, three irrigation service taps, two fire hydrants, and 22 mainline valves will be replaced to ensure proper functionality and maintenance capabilities for the new waterline infrastructure. The 12" waterline replacement is necessary due to a history of frequent water breaks and the failure of existing valves, which have proven inadequate for proper isolation. The current pipe and valves are original, dating back to 1974, and are approximately 50 years old, which has contributed to their diminished reliability. The existing line is sized appropriately and was confirmed by Broomfield's existing water model.

Waterline_Replacement-2025_map-image

136th Avenue

Rehabilitate the existing 20-inch waterline in 136th Avenue with 3,720 feet of 16-inch line from Red Deer Trail to Lowell Blvd. Staff worked with the engineering team who maintains Broomfield's water model to determine the appropriate size that would allow for a technique known as pipe slip lining without diminishing the volume or water pressure in the vicinity.  This technique allows the contractor to pull a new smaller-sized diameter pipe through the existing line. Due to the multiple underground infrastructures in 136th Avenue and the narrow/limited right of way through the Sunnyslope neighborhood, Slip lining will minimize the impact to the road, reduce the overall work schedule in the area and reduce overall cost of the project.

Lowell Blvd and W. 136th Avenue PRV

This project involves the rehabilitation of an existing PRV that has become obsolete due to failures and age. The current PRV, which is over 50 years old, is no longer supported with available replacement parts and has experienced multiple failures over time. As a result, the system needs to be upgraded to ensure continued functionality, reliability, and compliance with current standards.

Timeline

  • Project Start: Early to Mid-April
    • Westlake Drive beginning at S Princess Circle
    • Work will  move from S. Princess Circle north on Westlake Drive

Process

The general process for a typical waterline replacement process within a street is as follows:

  • The street will be excavated along the alignment of the new line and the pipe will be placed in the excavation.  The excavation will be filled as the line is placed.  This work should take from 5 to 7 days for each block.
  • Once the entire line is installed, the line will be pressurized.  The water will be tested to ensure it meets drinking water standards.  This process takes about 4 days.
  • Each service will be disconnected from the old line and connected to the new line.  This requires another excavation at each point of connection.
  • Once all the connections are completed, the excavation will be compacted and new asphalt will be placed.  
  • Please keep in mind that weather may impact the construction schedule and sequencing.

Impacts

Due to the nature of the project, on-street parking will be limited or removed during certain times along Westlake Drive.  Sidewalk closures with pedestrian detours will be implemented for safety.  Please respect the construction work area, signage, and notifications for the safety of residents, pedestrians, and the contractor.

Contact Us

City and County of Broomfield

Shawn Desotel
Utilities Superintendent
sdesotel@broomfield.org

Phil Potter
Utilities Manager
ppotter@broomfield.org

Ronda Jo Ackerman Alford
CIP Construction Superintendent, Public Works
ralford@broomfield.org

Diamond Contracting:

Shane Hoerig
Project Manager 
303-456-7666
DCCPipe@yahoo.com