Water Main Breaks: Risk Assessment and Investment Strategies

Abstract

Replacement to sustain the integrity of water mains in the United States is on a cycle of approximately once in 200 years, a slow rate that contributes to the current grade of D- on the Infrastructure Report Card. The main indicator of physical integrity is frequency of water main breaks, but reducing these is difficult because of the complexity and scale of the problem and the lack of incentives for pipeline replacement. This paper draws from current research to explain the risk formulation of the decision process for pipeline replacement, the current rates of renewal, and the reasons why utilities renew pipes at low rates. Recommended solutions in the face of a financial crisis focus on analysis and management tools, data systems, standardized reporting, incentive structures, modest rate increases, and voluntary industry reforms. Improving integrity of water distribution systems and reducing main breaks are important to the long-term viability of public water systems, the costs to future generations, and to public health. Solutions will require enlightened and committed professional and political leadership, and optimized life-cycle asset management that includes maintenance, replacement, and realistic cost models and design lives.