Water Utility

Madison-Madison Water Utility has kicked off a major water supply planning project that will pair professional and scientific expertise with community engagement to recommend future infrastructure on Madison's East Side.

The 18-month study will develop projects to improve water quality and supply on the east side of Madison. The study area ranges from the Yahara River on the west to I-90 on the east, to Northport Drive and East Towne on the north to Buckeye Road on the south. Using a $291,000 special appropriations grant procured by Representative Tammy Baldwin's office through the USEPA and $359,000 in Water Utility matching funds, the project will assess water demands, supply requirements, water quality, and distribution system capacity. The ultimate goal of the study will be to develop a capital improvement program to meet long term needs.

The utility will be seeking active public participation to help develop solutions for the water supply and quality issues identified. Water Utility General Manager Tom Heikkinen said that public collaboration is a key component of the new project. "We firmly believe that collaborating with the community on social, environmental, and economic issues will result in facilities we can all take pride in."

Madison Water Utility has contracted with Black and Veatch Corporation to provide engineering services and assistance with meeting facilitation. The project team includes experts with local experience in public participation.

Volunteers will be invited in the fall to establish a citizen advisory panel.