Using Digital Technologies in Capital Planning: Parker Water & Sanitation District's Water Supply Capital Planning Process

In modern water management, integrating system performance needs with stakeholder input is essential for effective capital planning. Parker Water & Sanitation District (PWSD) is completing a long-term water supply planning process. This presentation outlines the technical aspects of PWSD's approach, which integrated stakeholder input, water supply models, and a decision-support tool for capital planning. The process began with stakeholder workshops to establish objectives, assess system performance gaps, and define alternatives. Multi-criteria decision analysis was employed, allowing input from multiple stakeholders on evaluation criteria and capital plan alternatives that supported increasing water supply or decreasing demands through water efficiency measures. A non-proprietary tool, developed using the Microsoft Power Platform, enabled stakeholders to view how each capital plan variation met system performance metrics, organizational objectives, and budget constraints. Through a consensus-building process, commonalities across the alternative plans were identified, leading to a capital improvement plan that met system performance needs, diverse goals, and budget constraints. Unlike traditional methods that debate a single plan's merits, this approach allowed each stakeholder's perspective to be considered, resulting in improved buy-in, and a plan that is robust and defensible. The decision-support tool clearly demonstrated how each plan addressed needs and goals through embedded visualizations about system performance metrics. This data-driven approach has broad applicability and can serve as a model for other utilities undertaking similar capital planning efforts. PWSD's process represents a significant advancement in capital planning, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder involvement, technological integration, and a methodical approach. It provides a practical roadmap for other utilities, highlighting the role of digital technologies in modern capital planning for water management.