Project Summary
Customer
Lombard, IL
Type of Project
Elevated Storage Tanks, Standpipes, and Underground Reservoir
Rehab and Asset Management
Benefits:
- Extended asset lifespan
- Water quality improvements
- Budget predictability
- Regulatory compliance
Gold-Level Water AWWA Ambassador Maintains its Commitment to Sustainability and Infrastructure
Like many municipalities, Lombard faced growing challenges in maintaining its aging water storage infrastructure. Its elevated storage tanks, standpipes, and underground reservoirs, some over 60 years old, were becoming increasingly difficult to maintain with routine upkeep alone.
In addition to deteriorating coatings and structural fatigue, Lombard faced significant deteriorating strain when planning full rehabilitations. A traditional approach would require large lump sum investments for major repairs and coatings, making budgeting unpredictable. Additionally, underground reservoirs were showing signs of fatigue, creating potential risks for infiltration and water quality issues.
For Lombard, the decision to partner with USG Water Solutions was about more than just maintenance. It was about long-term sustainability and operational confidence. “Our elevated storage tanks and underground reservoirs, like many around the country were aging and becoming more challenging to maintain with regular routine maintenance.” said Brian Jack, Utilities Superintendent. Since joining USG Water’s proactive maintenance program, Lombard has seen significant improvements in both water and financial planning.
Demonstrating its commitment to proactive planning and infrastructure sustainability, the Village of Lombard, partnered with USG Water Solutions in 2016 to implement a structured maintenance program for four water storage assets. Addressing aging infrastructure, Lombard selected a cost-effective, reliable approach to protect water quality and ensure long-term system performance.
“
No large lump sums for painting or rehabilitations hitting our budget at once makes it a lot easier to do long-term planning for capital expenses. We will also be able to predict any future projects with the regular inspections included in the program, preventing major rehabs by making smaller repairs sooner.
— Brian Jack, Superintendent, Village of Lombard
Key Benefits
- Complete Rehabilitation & Water Quality Improvements: A new baseline of tanks has been completed with new coatings inside and out for the steel elevated storage tanks. Pax mixers have been installed to ensure water does not become stagnant, and rehabilitation of maintenance ladders, hatches, and underground reservoirs has been completed.
- Financial Stability & Budget Predictability: One of the most significant benefits of the maintenance program is the ability to spread maintenance and re-painting costs over time. Instead of dealing with large, lump-sum expenses, Lombard now has a stable and predictable budget for long-term infrastructure planning.
- Extended Asset Lifespan & Regulatory Compliance: Through regular inspections and proactive maintenance, Lombard’s water storage tanks and reservoirs will remain structurally sound and compliant with evolving regulations for years to come.
- Peace of Mind & Operational Efficiency: With USG Water managing inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance, the village’s public works team can focus on other critical infrastructure projects without unexpected setbacks or emergency repairs.
A Century-Long Commitment to Water Excellence
Lombard has maintained a strong commitment to sustainability and infrastructure, demonstrated by its Gold Level Water Ambassador designation from the Illinois Section of the AWWA. Additionally, the village celebrated 150 years of incorporation in 2019 and has been a member of the American Water Works Association for over a century.
“
The peace of mind of having a maintenance program and schedule that is managed by USG Water is great to have. Knowing that whatever issues arise will be caught early prevents future large projects or potential failures. Having a stable, consistent budget for tank maintenance and re-painting makes it easier for finance departments, village boards, and utility boards to approve and justify these types of programs to their residents and consumers.
— Brian Jack, Utility Superintendent, Village of Lombard
