The Wenatchee City Council discussed significant improvements to the Jefferson Reservoir during their recent meeting, addressing critical infrastructure needs that directly impact the community's water supply. The reservoir, built in the 1960s, has reached the end of its lifespan and has been losing approximately 60 million gallons of water annually due to leaks, contributing to a system-wide water loss of over 20%.

To combat this issue, the city has initiated a rehabilitation project that includes installing a new lining in the tank. During the project, additional safety concerns were identified, including the need for improvements to the ladder and the roof of the tank, which was found to be in worse condition than initially assessed. The council approved a change order to cover these unexpected safety enhancements, with the most significant expense being the sealing of the roof to prevent further water intrusion.

Despite these additional costs, the project remains under budget, with bids coming in significantly lower than the allocated $11.1 million. The change order amounts to approximately $180,000, which will be funded by the city's water utility. This financial efficiency is a positive outcome for residents, as it ensures that essential infrastructure improvements can be made without exceeding budgetary constraints.

The council emphasized the importance of these upgrades, noting that the reservoir is vital for the city's water supply, especially during peak usage times in the summer. With the ongoing improvements, the water loss rate has already decreased from over 40 gallons per minute to just 14 gallons per minute, showcasing the project's immediate impact.

Looking ahead, the city anticipates completing the rehabilitation work by fall, which will enhance the reliability of the water supply for Wenatchee residents. The council's proactive approach to addressing aging infrastructure reflects a commitment to maintaining essential services and ensuring the community's long-term water security.