Featured Article
Future water rates on target with past projections
New predictions for water rates following Waukesha’s switch to a Lake Michigan water supply are on target with estimates made at the start of the project, water utility officials say.
Latest News
The most recent articles on the Great Water Alliance and water resource management. This list will be constantly updated, so make sure to check back in.
Pipeline Construction Is Underway in Waukesha
Construction has begun in the Waukesha area marking a momentous milestone for the Great Water Alliance (GWA) and the program to bring a new water supply to Waukesha.
Return-flow pipeline construction begins soon
More than a decade since it began its quest for Lake Michigan water, the city of Waukesha is expected to see construction begin soon on a 23 1/2-mile pipeline that will one day return treated Lake Michigan water to the Root River watershed and eventually Lake Michigan itself.
Waukesha Booster Pumping Station Update
On March 17, 2020, the cities of Waukesha and New Berlin officially agreed to work together to move Waukesha’s water supply program forward. As part of the agreement, the proposed booster pumping station (BPS) will not be built in Minooka Park in New Berlin as initially intended but will instead be located on Waukesha’s east-central side near Broadway and Les Paul Parkway.
WIFIA Update
The recent announcement of a federal loan for the Great Water Alliance project is great news for Waukesha ratepayers. “Customers will save almost $1 million per year over the 38-year life of the loan because of the exceptionally low interest rate and a flexible repayment schedule,” according to Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly.
One Step Closer – Pipeline Flushing in Waukesha
Another important step in transitioning Waukesha’s system from groundwater to Lake Michigan water will begin in September, with flushing or “scouring” select local water mains to fully prepare them for the water supply conversion.
Federal financing means big savings for water ratepayers
A federal loan for the city’s Lake Michigan water supply project is “fantastic news” for water customers, according to Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly. “Ratepayers will save almost $1 million per year over the 38-year life of the loan because of the exceptional interest rate and a flexible repayment schedule,” Reilly said.
Presentations and Postings
It is important to understand why Waukesha must secure a Lake Michigan water supply, so we’ve made several presentations available. Program development has included many organizations, so we’ve also posted key approvals and permits.
Partner Communities
Our efforts to bring a safe and sustainable water supply to Waukesha wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration and cooperation of our neighboring communities. Up-to-date information about how the new program may affect your community throughout the process will be shared here on our website, as well as in our e-newsletter.
For program information regarding your community, follow the links below.
