Soil borings were taken on the slopes of Lakes 1 and 4 to determine if the imported clay met the specifications given to the Contractor when the project was awarded. A total of 13 test sites were selected and samples were collected at depths of one and two feet. All of the samples met the specifications for the incoming clay. The District’s Engineer has been questioned regarding the presence of construction debris visible in the clay. As of this date, the Board has not received a suitable answer regarding the debris, except that it should not have affected the sealing ability of the clay liner – which assertion the Board does not agree with.
At the January 16 meeting, the District’s Engineer recommended that Lake 4 be filled to its planned lake level and kept at that level while monitoring the water volume required to maintain that level. As of January 16, it is now the consensus of the District’s Engineer, the geotechnical firm and other firms involved with lake construction is that the imported clay needs time to swell and close up leak paths. Estimated times provided to the Board ranged from 3 months to one year. Refilling of Lake 4 began on January 16. The water level will be closely monitored for any water loss. Unfortunately, the Board was not given any repair recommendations regarding Lake 1. Once sufficient data is obtained from Lake 4, the District’s Engineer will develop a plan forward that can (hopefully) apply to both lakes. Lake 1 levels will continue to be monitored while awaiting the results from Lake 4.
Lakes 1 and 4 Renovation Update – January 20th
The Board has been working on several projects at the two water plants. The new well and related infrastructure at Water Plant #1 is complete. However, the TCEQ has not yet approved use of the well, so it remains inoperable at this time. The corrosion and leaks in the groundwater storage tanks at Water Plant #1 have been repaired. A new generator has been installed at Water Plant #1 to ensure that water service can be maintained in the event of a power outage. A new perimeter fence has been installed around Water Plant #2. Repairs to the Water Plant #2 control building and upgrades to the electrical system are ongoing.
Additionally, the District’s Engineer presented a list of water infrastructure repair and improvement projects totaling almost $2 million. The Board is working with its Financial Advisor to determine the best options for funding these projects.