Adapting Approach
Technology plays a guiding role in the program’s guided focus on reinvestment in community assets. Smart sewer technologies are being applied, and utility operations are being optimized. We have also updated the city’s wastewater hydraulic model to be an effective tool for project design. As further data is collected and the model expands, it will continue to support capital project development.
Ongoing work to reduce both wet-weather and dry-weather overflows utilizes foundational, accessible data systems to drive project prioritization and decisions. Our efforts have included upgrades, administration and training on the city’s computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Technical solutions such as Trimble Cityworks and SewerAI deliver reliable and accessible data used to guide decisions, report on projects and communicate progress.
Better, Faster Implementation
Since 2019, the program team has reduced the number of overflows to approximately 50% of the peak number of overflows reported previously. The strategic plan of critical capital projects, rehabilitation projects, capacity projects and cleaning of sewer basins has been performed within the city’s limited financial resources.
As the program continues, our team reviews all designs and provides quality control. We also work directly with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. Program success hinges on good communication, data-driven decisions and wise use of resources.
Our program team is also supporting the city with regulatory engagement and coordination. These efforts focus on the long-term viability of the city’s systems and examine opportunities for revisions to the city’s consent decree obligations.