Cuba Water System Model
The City of Cuba was contemplating several different water system improvements against a modest budget. The City Public Works Department did not have the information necessary to determine the most cost effective improvements to meet the systems greatest needs and provide service to proposed development. Our firm was retained by the City to model their existing water system and the proposed improvements and prioritize the contemplated improvements based upon cost/benefit to the system.
The City provided a digital map of their water distribution system, which Archer transferred into PIPE 2000, a graphical pipe network analysis program utilizing KY PIPE for its analysis engine. Fire hydrants were flowed throughout the system and compared to the theoretical values calculated by PIPE 2000. Differing theoretical and actual flows, coupled with visible discrepancies noticed on the City map led to an overall review of the map's accuracy with City Water Department personnel. Multiple modifications were made to pipe sizes, materials, and inter-connections. The system was then re-analyzed and calibrated to meet the City's needs.
The different improvement alternatives were then modeled to determine their effect on the system. In addition, Archer provided other alternatives for consideration. Construction cost estimates for each alternative were provided in a prioritized list of improvements to meet existing system deficiencies. The City was then able to prepare a five-year budget for the phased improvement project. The first phase of improvements is scheduled for construction this summer.