A 1-million-gallon, elevated, water storage tank was built by the Genesee County Drain Commissioner (GCDC) in Burton, MI, to increase reliability and pressure in the eastern half of the County’s water distribution and transmission system. The water tower will help meet peak demand, improve fire flow protection, and maintain pressure in the system during power outages or mechanical failure since it doesn’t rely on electricity. Wade Trim provided design and construction engineering services for this project that advances the County’s 40-year Capital Improvement Plan. Partially funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, the project protects public health and provides reliable, quality water to the area.

The 170-foot-high hydropillar tank features a fluted column and 75-foot-wide bowl, electrical controls, and instrumentation. A conceptual design with color renderings of the tank, and a preliminary site plan, helped streamline review and approval by the City of Burton’s Planning Commission. Extensive land analysis was conducted through a topographic survey, soil borings, and geotechnical analysis, as well as detailed design of the elevated storage tank and site. An onsite stormwater management system was integrated with a storm sewer, detention pond, and catch basins.

Wade Trim’s construction engineering services included construction administration, shop drawing review, and field observation and engineering. Aerial photography surveys via drone were conducted throughout construction to monitor progression of this sixth elevated water storage facility in the County’s system.