Value: $4,376,150
Owner: City of Houston Fresh Water Supply District
Project Overview
The FWSD #23 Wastewater Improvements project exemplifies Reytec’s precision and expertise in complex underground construction. Designed to improve wastewater conveyance within an active treatment environment, the project was completed entirely inside the operational boundaries of the FWSD #23 Wastewater Treatment Facility—requiring exceptional technical coordination and safety management.
Scope & Key Components
Reytec’s work included the construction of an 880-linear-foot, 60-inch sanitary sewer microtunnel supported by substantial excavation and structural work. Key elements included:
- A 36-foot diameter launch shaft excavated to a depth of 50 feet
- A 14-foot diameter retrieval shaft extending to 55 feet
- 85 linear feet of hand tunneling to connect the new line to the existing lift station wet well
- Installation of a 12-foot diameter polymer manhole with a 24-inch vortex drop structure to improve hydraulic efficiency and reduce turbulence
Challenges & Execution Approach
Executing this project within an active wastewater treatment facility demanded precise coordination and a heightened focus on safety. Reytec’s crews sequenced all work around continuous plant operations, ensuring zero service interruptions and full compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. Each phase was carefully engineered to control groundwater, maintain structural stability, and protect both personnel and adjacent infrastructure.
Impact & Benefits
The completed improvements deliver increased wastewater capacity and long-term reliability for the district, strengthening the community’s essential infrastructure. The specialized vortex drop structure further enhances system performance, reducing wear and improving operational efficiency for years to come.
Demonstrating Reytec’s Expertise
Through disciplined planning, skilled tunneling execution, and unwavering commitment to safety, Reytec once again demonstrated its ability to perform technically complex underground work within high-risk environments—delivering lasting value to the City of Houston Fresh Water Supply District and the community it serves.
