Strategy Team #4 – Optimize Infrastructure Performance

In 2008, CWW formalized our Asset Management (AM) Program efforts by evaluating 1) asset inventory, 2) asset criticality, 3) service levels, 4) asset condition assessment, 5) planned maintenance of assets, and 6) business case investing.  Our multifaceted AM program was then closely aligned with our Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) evaluation process (2009) and we currently utilize a systematic and comprehensive quantitative analysis based on triple bottom line costs and benefits, historical data, risk mitigation strategies, and prudent financial planning to prioritize projects and establish timelines.  We continue to upgrade and implement systems to ensure the AM program facilitates optimal decision-making at all stages of the infrastructure life-cycle.  One of the vital components of our AM program has been the development of a steering team designed to collaborate with operational departments,  Strategy Team 2 (Regional Expansion), Strategy Team 3 (Information Technology) and Strategy Team 6 (Financial Stability) to ensure the timely  tracking and reporting of AM milestones and activities. 

The steering team led in the initial development and assignment of criticality and condition assessments (2008), development of critical asset planned maintenance requirements (2009), developed a condition assessment approach (2009), deployment of an Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) for the fleet management program (2010), and implementation of a condition rating system (2011).  Scheduled future activities include the expansion of current information system reporting capabilities (2011), implementation of selected criteria from the EPA Capacity, Management, Operation, Maintenance (CMOM) program (2011), implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) interface with our current work order system (2012), Global Positioning System (GPS) and data collection of future distribution and wastewater collection system assets (2012).

Strategy Team 4 coordinates with several operational departments to develop activities and programs to ensure that all the infrastructure remains operational so that we can continue to deliver potable (drinkable) water to our valued customers, with as few disruptions or failures as possible. One component of the infrastructure, the water distribution system, directs clean water from the water plant (NCWRF) into homes and businesses through our water pipes.  Another component of the infrastructure, the sanitary sewer lines, help dispose of wastewater by directing that flow to the wastewater plant (SCWRF), where wastewater is efficiently treated, with as little impact on the environment as possible, before being returned to the river.  This strategy focuses on coordinating with our operational departments such as Engineering, Field Services, Meter Services, and Managed Maintenance to develop innovative and cost-effective work procedures to continuously secure, improve and maintain our infrastructure and operational assets.