Griswold WPF Solids Handling Improvements (CM/GC)

Critical infrastructure at the Griswold Water Purification Facility (WPF) had reached the end of its useful life. To ensure continued service to the community, the City of Aurora partnered with Garney and Carollo Engineers to replace aging systems with modern, upgraded solutions. The project involved demolishing outdated backwash lagoons, constructing new concrete backwash basins, and building a new backwash recycle pump station to replace the existing one.

Garney completed the work in two phases. Phase 1 involved the demolition and installation of pipelines, including the removal and replacement of 900 linear feet (LF) of 24″ ductile iron pipe (DIP) and 150 LF of 36″ steel reclaimed water pipelines. Phase 1 also included the replacement of three backwash pumps, new variable frequency drives, and installing associated piping in the basement of the existing plant to facilitate greater flexibility for plant operations.

Phase 2 focused on upgrading the treatment plant. Crews demolished three aging clay-lined backwash lagoons, constructed four new backwash concrete recovery basins equipped with sand drying beds, and upgraded process piping. The backwash pump station upgrades included the installation of 10 large-capacity submersible centrifugal pumps, increasing operational efficiency throughout the plant.

Garney and the City of Aurora carefully coordinated three shutdowns to minimize disruptions to plant operations during construction. This sequenced approach allowed the team to accelerate the construction schedule and complete the project efficiently. It also facilitated a smooth transition between the new and old systems.

The Griswold WPF Solids Handling Improvements project demonstrates how seamless coordination, technical expertise, and teamwork enhanced plant efficiency, provided uninterrupted service during construction, and protected the community’s drinking water.