New Innovations for Program Management … Challenges and Successes

The Metro Wastewater Reclamation District (MWRD) in Denver was established in 1961 with a high level of bond debt. Then, the Board adopted a philosophy of reducing debt. By the early 1990s, all of MWRD's improvements were done on a cash basis. Now, the Robert W. Hite Treatment Facility faces its treatment capacity, and improvements will require over 1 billion.To minimize debt, a new approach would be necessary. A team was developed with MWRD, Black & Veatch, and Brown and Caldwell. The team faces important issues:Cost Controls. The most important objective is to control program capital costs during studies, design, construction, and operations.Protection of Operations. MWRD now faces detrimental impacts on plant operations. It is critical that MWRD never violate their discharge permit.Design Team. The design team will include MWRD staff and consultants who will be working together during all project phases.