17290_Authority_February_2024

municipalauthorities.org | 49 During the application process, additional steps were required, including completing an LSL Replacement Engineer’s Checklist and related submissions: (a) service line inventory description and sample, (b) LSL Replacement Plan, (c) draft customer notices, (d) point-of-use treatment specifications, (e) homeowner flushing procedures after replacement, and (f) plans, specifications, location map, and erosion and sedimentation control plan. With proper and proactive planning, SCMA was able to successfully secure a $5,240,100 grant for the lead service line portion of project and a $3,441,200 loan at an interest rate of 1% years 1-5 and 1.743% years 6-20 for the water main replacement portion. [See Info Graphic 3.] Construction Considerations There are several items unique to LSL replacement projects that must be considered when developing the bid documents. If funded with IIJA funds, construction contracts needed to include provisions for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, American Iron and Steel, Davis Bacon Wages, and potentially Build America Buy America (if project planning started prior to May 14, 2022, a waiver may be applicable). Because of the varied funding sources, the construction contract was broken into parts and subparts: Part A - Water Main Replacements; Part B1 - Lead Service Line Replacement Public Side; and Part B2 - Lead Service Line Replacement Private Side. Part A is funded through the loan from PENNVEST, and Part B is funded through the grant. Municipalities can also require certified plumbers to perform work within the private side service line and home, even occasionally listing approved plumbers that must be used. The contract documents require the contractor to comply with municipal plumbing requirements and may result in the successful bidder subcontracting internal service line work. Prepared and Positioned for Success In considering those questions noted in the beginning of this article, SCMA elected to move forward with an LSL Replacement Project. In doing so, they have been able to secure over $5 million in grant funding, will improve water quality in EJ Areas, and take advantage of economies of scale to address previously identified water main replacement projects. By completing this LSL replacement project on a smaller scale, SCMA will be well-positioned to continue with LSL replacements and meet the proposed LCRI 10-year replacement requirements once finalized. S Info Graphic 1. Info Graphic 2. Info Graphic 3.