Strategic Goal #10

PolyB 2-inch Blowoffs

Issue

Polybutylene (PolyB) is a form of plastic resin that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 until 1995.

The Field Crew determined that there were nine 2" blowoffs in areas of the village that were developed since the 1980s that were plumbed with PolyB pipe.  With age, and particularly with contact with chlorinated water, PolyB pipe becomes very brittle, breaks easily, and cannot be repaired.  The Field Crew has already replaced six

PolyB 2" blowoffs; there are three left to replace.

[Several homes in the village are plumbed with PolyB 1" pipelines to their water meters.  When these break, they cause little damage and they are relatively easy to fix.  The Field Crew continues to replace them as they break.]

Goal

Replace all PolyB 2” blowoffs to improve water system reliability.

Strategy

1.      Purchase and store all the necessary parts and materials.

2.      Replace the three remaining PolyB 2" blowoffs by December 2005.

3.      Gradually eliminate PolyB pipe throughout the District.

Cost  (Operating Budget)

Estimated cost for replacing the existing connections to PolyB pipes is $4,500 and funded from water rates.

Impact to monthly water rates is negligible.

No impact to monthly sewer rates.

Development impact is 0%.