Background

The wastewater collection system in the Colonias Loma Linda and Esperanza has been in operation for 45 years. The original pipe material is made of concrete and clay and is experiencing frequent collapses. The aging and failing wastewater collection lines pose an immediate threat to residents, as well as a potential health risk from exposure to untreated
discharges and an environmental risk through infiltration in groundwater resources and untreated surface water discharges, which eventually cross the U.S.-Mexico border through the New River.

The proposed project consists of the rehabilitation of the wastewater system of the Loma Linda and Esperanza colonias to properly collect and convey the wastewater flows to the existing Zaragoza Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), which currently receives flows of 20.8 million gallons a day (mgd) and has the capacity to receive an additional 8.8
mgd.

Description

The Project will replace 24,085 linear feet (7,341 meters) of deteriorated sanitary sewer collection lines and will provide improved wastewater collection services for up to 637 existing residential sewer connections. It includes the installation of the following components:

• Esperanza Colonia:
  
  • 16,004 ft. of 8-inch diameter PVC pipe
  • 93,132 sq. ft. of asphalt pavement
• Loma Linda Colonia:
  • 6,503 ft. of 8-inch diameter PVC pipe
  • 1,578 ft. of 12-inch diameter PVC pipe
  • 52,347 sq. ft. of asphalt pavement

Benefits

Implementation of the proposed project will reduce the risk of water pollution and waterborne diseases, directly benefitting an estimated 2,230 residents, and will also prevent possible groundwater contamination and increase the reliability of wastewater collection services. Additionally, this project will reduce the potential for contamination of shared water bodies, such as the New River.