Major Texas aquifer programme moves into design phase

The global consultancy Black & Veatch entered into the design phase of a comprehensive programme management contract that will help the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) meet current and future demands for drinking water and decrease reliance on a single source of supply.

SAWS developed a long-range plan that identified several water supply projects essential to meet future needs, given that the population and water demand for the greater San Antonio are projected to double by 2050. One year ago, SAWS contracted with Black & Veatch to provide programme management for the Gonzales County Carrizo Aquifer Program, which has progressed smoothly through planning into the design phase, according to SAWS Major Projects Coordinator Andrea Beymer.

The aquifer programme will develop wells, pumping stations, approximately 100 miles of transmission main, water treatment plant modification, high-service pumping stations and integration facilities. The new facilities will be designed, constructed and operational by January 2008. The programme budget is US$ 300 million for phase-one facilities. For more information on the project, visit www.gccap.info.