Legislation looks to local source for water infrastructure needs

The Public Works Committee tomorrow (Thursday, April 5) will take up legislation examining whether a maker of components needed for replacing the city’s aging water infrastructure could be established locally.

Common Council file #171796, a resolution authored by Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, directs the commissioner of the Department of Public Works, the superintendent of the Milwaukee Water Works and the City Attorney to study the feasibility of establishing a local manufacturer for items needed in the replacement of water system infrastructure.

With widespread replacement of lead water service laterals across the city expected to take place over the course of decades, the cost of component pipes, fittings and other parts is going to be significant with total project costs expected to be near $1 billion.

“In my view it makes sense to study whether the city can establish a local manufacturer to make and supply the hardware, components and vital materials that will be needed as the city replaces lead laterals that supply our vital city water to homes and neighborhoods,” Alderwoman Coggs said.

“If a manufacturer could be established it would mean creating jobs and stimulating the city’s economy,” the alderwoman said. “But obviously we also need to look at whether it can produce savings or whether it would be too expensive. I believe these questions are worth exploring.”

Tomorrow’s Public Works Committee meeting will start at 9 a.m. in room 301-B at City Hall, 200 E. Wells St.

Thursday’s meeting will be televised live on the City Channel (Channel 25 on Spectrum Cable and on AT&T U-Verse Channel 99) in the City of Milwaukee. It can also be viewed via streaming video on the city website at www.city.milwaukee.gov/Channel25.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.