May 24, 2006

Dear Downtown Property Owner,

The second phase of the downtown waterline replacement program is underway.  We trust that the efforts we are pursuing to expedite the project will continue to minimize the impact to your business.

There is an important option for you to consider as part of this project.  The contractor will be able to install “T’s” for future fire line connections as the main waterline is being installed in the street. There are multiple benefits to this being done in conjunction with the project.  With installation of the “T” at this time, the work can be done while the street is dug up and will prevent excavation in the street once it is milled and paved at project completion.  Another advantage is that you can have the extension installed at today’s prices for labor and equipment.  A final benefit, of course, is the safety factor of having a dedicated fire line to serve your building.

This option has been brought up in the past during discussions with property owners and during the public meetings associated with the project.  Since the project is already underway, we need to know very quickly if you want to take advantage of this opportunity.  Please consider below our estimated costs for the valve and installation of the fire line to a point that is 6 inches inside your building:

Estimated Costs: 

          4-inch valve and fire line - $6,350

          6-inch valve and fire line - $6,680

The property owner is responsible to core drill the basement wall and provide an appropriate sleeve to allow a fire line extension inside the basement wall.  A cap will be placed on the fire line for a future extension by the owner’s plumber. Upon completion of the installation, the owner is responsible for the fire line from the valve located in the street.  Details of this work can be discussed with the owner’s plumber once a decision is made to install the fire line.

If you desire to have the work done please contact the Utility Department (832-7800) by Friday, June 2, 2006.  If you have questions, please contact me at 832-7814.

Sincerely,

Chris Stewart – Assistant Director of Utilities (Water)