The project: IMEG provided structural and civil engineering and survey services for various additions and modifications to improve water quality at the Bachman Water Treatment Plant.

The goal: The primary goal was to improve overall water treatment effectiveness through chemical system upgrades, facility renovations, and replacement of critical infrastructure all while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining plant operations.

Scope of work: These improvements included modifications to the primary rapid mix facility, implementation of an enhanced coagulation system at the existing flocculation and sedimentation basins, conversion of the existing secondary ferric storage to a polymer storage structure, conversion of the existing primary ferric storage to a BAF chemical facility, development of a new hydrated lime facility and storage center, development of a new ferric sulfate storage facility, and renovation of the chlorine scrubber system. The project also included renovating the existing office and laboratory space in the head house building at the plant. The existing building is a conventionally reinforced concrete superstructure on concrete spread footings, the perimeter wall is a multi-wythe load-bearing masonry wall, and the roof consists of a metal deck on steel channel framing. Additionally, the design included structural analysis of the existing 1928 framing to support current design code loads. Any overstressed concrete members received exterior Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) reinforcing, as necessary, to handle the increase in loading.

Our team also worked on the complete demolition and replacement of the existing ground storage tank, and the installation of several new meter vaults. The storage tank structure has a footprint of 230 feet x 215 feet and 30 feet deep below grade and is located directly adjacent to Bachman Lake. This location required critical excavation protection measures to protect existing facilities and control groundwater during construction. Careful coordination with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) was required to navigate groundwater level control requirements to conform to Chapter 290.

The outcome: The upgrades significantly improved the plant’s chemical treatment capabilities and structural integrity, increased storage reliability, and brought critical facilities up to modern standards. Regulatory compliance was achieved through strategic coordination and detailed design analysis, ensuring long-term performance and public health protection.