High pressure pipeline breaks and is repaired

Between May 6 and May 15, 2024, the high pressure pipeline connecting the Rawlins Water Treatment Plant to in-town tanks suffered multiple breaks due to its fragile and corroded condition. This line, critical to supplying water to a significant portion of Rawlins homes and businesses, underwent immediate repairs by city crews.

What does the transmission line do?

This pipeline carries treated water from the treatment plant to both in-town water tanks, one above the El Rancho/Hospital neighborhood and one above the Happy Hollow/Scarlet Drive neighborhood. The line and high-pressure tanks provide water to approximately half of the homes and businesses in Rawlins. There are also treated water tanks, known as the tank farm, located near the treatment plant south of town. The high and low-pressure systems are interconnected, and the tanks can extend beyond their normal area. 

What happened and how was it repaired?

On May 6, a fist-sized hole was discovered and temporarily clamped, with teams restoring water flow. The system remained stable thanks to community-wide water conservation efforts.

Additional breaks occurred on May 10, 12, and 13, further highlighting the urgency of replacing the aging 3-mile ductile iron pipe.

On May 15, approximately 30 feet of the corroded line was successfully replaced with durable PVC pipes, ensuring functionality for now. Water flow resumed, taking roughly 6–8 hours to refill the high pressure line.

What are our plans for long-term solutions?

The high pressure pipeline has been identified as a priority repair for many years due to its fragile condition. This project is on the list as Priority 1, with ideal completion within the next five years. However, the Water Fund must have enough money to secure a loan to complete this and other high-priority projects. As shown in the 2024 Water Rate Study (www.rawlinswy.gov/feestudy), we are planning for $42.2 million total in out-of-town work, including $28 million in Priority 1 Projects (pgs. 3-4) and a total debt load of $20 m (pgs. 27-28). Without an increase in revenue for the water fund, we cannot complete this high-pressure transmission line replacement or other high-priority projects.  

Contact Us

While temporary measures are holding, the fragile pipeline remains at risk of future breaks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via the City of Rawlins website under "City of Rawlins News." You can subscribe for email or text updates at www.rawlinswy.gov/notifyme to receive real-time alerts and notifications.

Water users' continued participation in conservation efforts, such as limiting irrigation or reducing water usage during high-demand times, is crucial in preventing tank depletion in case of further disruptions. For additional updates or questions, contact Mira Miller, City of Rawlins Community Relations/PIO, at 307-328-4500 ext. 1022.