Introduction

The City of Hutchinson believes strongly in the protection and maintenance of its infrastructure resources. The infrastructure resources tracked by the Engineering/Public Works Group include: Street lights, signals and signs Streets, sidewalks and trails Sanitary sewer, water main and storm sewer (including ponds)

Proper management of these resources allows the City to maximize the quality of its infrastructure while controlling costs. The City utilizes various technologies and procedures to track these resources. In particular, the following systems are utilized:

GIS/GPS Database: The City has developed a Geographic Information System (GIS) that allows us to access databases utilizing a map interface. The map was developed by pinpointing manholes, catch basins, hydrants and other infrastructure utilizing a Global Positioning System (GPS). This system has links to information on infrastructure condition, location, maintenance, construction information and plans, and other information.

Pavement Management System: Tracks the age, construction standards, strength, condition and other aspects of the existing pavement. A pavement Condition Index (PCI) is developed based on type and amount of cracking evident, while non-destructive testing helps identify structural issues that may not show from a surface analysis. Allows development of reports to help prioritize maintenance and replacement goals, needs and schedules.

Sanitary Sewer: Sanitary sewer systems are cleaned and televised on a regular schedule, allowing staff to review the condition of main lines and services. Construction and maintenance records are also accessible through the GIS. A Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer Plan has been developed and updated to identify future improvement needs for the expanding community.

Sidewalks and Trails: The condition of sidewalks and trails are reviewed on a periodic basis. See more information at the page for Sidewalks/Trails.

Storm Sewer: Storm sewer lines are cleaned on a rotating basis, and are televised if necessary to identify problem areas. Locations with problems during rainfall events are identified on the GIS, and the areas are reviewed by city staff and consultants for potential future improvements. The entire system operations are reviewed as part of our Surface Water Management Planning.

Streets, lights and signs: Condition information for street lights, curb and gutter, signs and other street related infrastructure are gathered during regular on-site evaluations. Information is compiled and tracked on the GIS. Replacement and/or maintenance schedules are set based on staffing and financial resources available. See more information at the sites for Street Lights/Signals and Traffic Control.

Water Works: Information regarding the construction and maintenance of the system, including breaks and other issues, are tracked utilizing the GIS. Comprehensive Plans for the Water Plant and distribution systems have been developed and are periodically updated to review existing upgrades needed on the system, and to identify future needs for the community.

Use of Information

The information provided by this system allows the City to:

Establish a capital value of the City’s infrastructure, as required by federal law.

Provide information related to the development of maintenance plans and yearly general operating budgets (establishing priorities, estimating expense needs, etc.)

Provide information related to the development of short and long-term Capital Improvement Plans (CIP)

See also the section on Improvement Projects.