South Ankeny Boulevard Transmission Main

Challenge

As one of Iowa’s fastest-growing cities, Ankeny is focused on strengthening the infrastructure needed to support both residents and ongoing growth. To meet these needs, the City launched a project to upgrade its water distribution system. Their top priority was enhancing the reliability of the water distribution system by creating a looped transmission network, allowing for water to keep flowing even if a pump station or transmission main were taken offline for maintenance or emergency repair.

To strengthen Ankeny’s water distribution network, the City planned a new transmission main along S Ankeny Boulevard. The 5,400-foot route would connect two Central Iowa Water Works sources while linking the City’s water towers and northwest booster station. Because the line ran through a busy commercial corridor, careful coordination was required to minimize disruptions to traffic, businesses, and pedestrians.

Solution

SEH partnered with the City to design and deliver the 24-inch PVC transmission main from SW Magazine Road to SE Oralabor Road. The completed project looped critical water sources and tied together major system assets, creating a more resilient and flexible supply. This redundancy not only improves day-to-day service reliability but also ensures water delivery can continue seamlessly during pump station maintenance or unexpected outages, providing long-term value to the community.

"SEH was able to design around many obstacles on this project, including franchise utilities and City of Ankeny utilities, to complete this transmission main loop project for the City.  They were very thorough and worked with several utilities to ensure the project moved along smoothly and avoided major conflicts."
- Don Clark, Director of Municipal Utilities, Ankeny

Detailed Surveying for Accurate Design

To support the design process, the team conducted topographic, utility, and boundary surveys. These surveys formed the foundation of an accurate basemap, reducing the risk of utility conflicts during construction. Utility data was gathered through the Iowa One Call system, which requires citizens to dial 811 prior to digging so utilities can be marked and damage prevented and then confirmed with field markings to reduce the risk of conflicts during construction. The boundary survey also established right-of-way lines and supported the preparation of easement documents, ensuring the City had the necessary property rights for construction.

Funding Support through SRF Compliance

To make the project financially feasible, SEH helped the City secure a State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan. Our team completed and submitted all necessary documentation, ensuring compliance with program requirements. This support allowed the City to access low-interest financing and stay on track with its capital improvement planning.

Through thoughtful design, detailed surveying, and funding support, this project not only strengthens Ankeny’s water infrastructure but also positions the City for long-term growth. By enhancing system reliability and minimizing construction impacts, the improvements ensure residents and businesses alike benefit from a safe, dependable, and future-ready water supply.