Before the City may install a new water main across the Billings Bench Water Association (BBWA) Canal at the west end of Parkhill Drive, they must execute an Encroachment Permit for the BBWA. Because the BBWA plans to begin operating the Canal by April 15, they require that the Canal be crossed by April 1.  Therefore, it is necessary to execute this Encroachment Permit and install the steel casing pipe under the Canal as soon as possible.

Canal crossing work will involve installing a 36-inch diameter steel casing pipe below and across the BBWA Canal to facilitate the future installation of a 24-inch redundant water main to Staples Pump Station.

If the City is unable to execute the Encroachment Permit, it will be unable to legally cross the BBWA Canal with a new steel casing and future public water main. Without this public utility in place, the City cannot complete the W.O. 09-13 Staples Redundant Water Main project which will install a 24-inch water main across the canal and approximately 6,800 feet to Staples Pump Station.

There is a $1,542.00 BBWA Canal crossing fee which will be paid from water funds.

Staff recommends that Council approve and the Mayor execute the BBWA Canal Crossing Encroachment Permit.