Challenge

Valdes Architecture & Engineering (Valdes) provided a comprehensive study and detailed design services for the rehabilitation of the Lower Pump House at the Justice-Willow Springs Water Commission (JWSWC). This is a critical facility responsible for regulating flow and pressure into the distribution system along with circulating water between a 1-million-gallon aboveground tank and a 3-million-gallon underground reservoir.

Solution

The project began with an evaluation of existing electrical systems, pumps, piping, valves, screens, and related equipment to determine replacement needs and identify opportunities to improve operational reliability. At the time of assessment, the facility housed five pumps, three of which were operational; one had recently been replaced, and two nonfunctional units were slated for demolition. To support accurate design development, Valdes coordinated laser scanning of the Lower Pump House to document existing field conditions.

Following the study, Valdes provided full detailed design services, delivering bid-ready construction documents and coordinating all multidisciplinary engineering activities. Work included hydraulic analysis using SCADA data to finalize pump sizing and system performance, preparation of the IEPA permit application, and development of construction drawings, technical specifications, Material Take-Offs, and Bills of Materials. The team performed structural loading evaluations, finalized P&IDs, and aligned process, mechanical, electrical, and structural design elements to meet operational, safety, and constructability requirements.

Throughout the project, Vales supported JWSWC through permitting, bidding, and construction management.

Impact

Valdes translated a critical, aging facility into a reliable, future-ready asset. Through a disciplined evaluation of existing conditions, data-driven hydraulic analysis, and fully coordinated multidisciplinary design, the project reduced operational risk and improved system reliability for a key node in the JWSWC distribution network. Bid-ready documents, accurate quantities, and regulatory alignment streamlined procurement and construction, while laser-verified field data minimized change orders. The rehabilitation positioned the Lower Pump House to operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with current standards for decades of continued service.

Services

Civil

Structural

Mechanical

Electrical

Instrumentation & Controls

Project Management