Creative Solution Ends Summer Water Shortage
For more than 20 years, East Lyme experienced summer water shortages due to the influx of seasonal visitors, and restrictions on town well usage aimed at maintaining minimum stream flows that protect fish and wildlife. Although the water system serves approximately 18,000 persons in winter, the population spikes to 30,000 in the summer.
To manage this seasonal strain, the Town of East Lyme had been forced to impose water restrictions in the summer so that water demands did not exceed the available water supply. After considering several alternatives to relieve this water shortage and foster economic development, the Town elected to design and construct a water system interconnection with the City of New London.
Model of Regional Cooperation
Applauded by local and state dignitaries as a model of regional cooperation for its unique water “banking” solution, this landmark inter-municipal project was the first of its kind in Connecticut. The interconnection allows East Lyme to “bank” excess water from its wells at New London’s Lake Konomoc reservoir and water treatment facility during the fall and winter, when East Lyme’s water demands are at their lowest. Then, during the spring and summer, New London provides East Lyme with water when demands are the highest, and tourist season is in full swing.
Following the Flow
Five years in the making, this project includes two pump stations, flow meters, and an elevated 425,000 gallon water storage tank. This is the first composite elevated tank with glass-fused-to-steel bowl to be constructed in Connecticut. The interconnection includes approximately four miles of 16-inch water main from the northern end of the East Lyme water distribution system to the Lake Konomoc Water Treatment Plant. The latter is owned by the City of New London and located in Waterford.
Services Snapshot
Our services included engineering, environmental, permitting, and construction administration.
Award Recognition
2015 Grand Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Connecticut (ACEC/CT)
