Project Phases
Planning
Survey crews document the existing drainage system and surrounding areas. The project team uses this information, along with property owner input and requests for service, to analyze existing drainage system conditions. Staff hosts a public meeting to present the existing conditions analysis and obtain additional input from property owners. Several improvement alternatives are then developed and evaluated to determine the most economical and least impactful solution. The project team presents the recommended alternative to property owners for input at a public meeting at the end of this phase. This phase typically lasts 12 to 27 months.
Design
The project team develops detailed construction drawings for the selected alternative, addressing pipe sizes and alignments, drainage channel widths, utility relocations and easement locations. A project team member may meet with individual property owners to discuss the drainage system improvements and how construction will impact specific properties. The project team hosts a public meeting to present the preliminary design plan, which illustrates specific improvements to properties, and begin the easement acquisition process. This phase typically lasts 21 to 34 months.
Permitting
The project team obtains required Federal and State water quality permits and other necessary permits, such as permission to work within railroad and NCDOT rights-of-way, as necessary. This phase typically lasts 3 to 9 months and will overlap with the Design Phase.
Property Easement/Acquisition
Staff works with property owners to acquire temporary or permanent easements. Easements provide permission for Storm Water Services to access the property, construct the recommended improvement and provide future maintenance. This phase typically lasts 9 to 12 months and will overlap with the Design Phase.
Bid
A competitive bidding process is held to select a qualified contractor to construct the project. By state law, the lowest responsible bidder is awarded the construction contract. This phase typically lasts 7 to 8 months.
Construction
Throughout construction, the project team works to minimize disruption to property owners. The Storm Water Services construction inspector serves as the main point of contact for residents. Notifications of key construction dates will be communicated to residents prior to construction. This phase varies, depending on the specific project, but typically lasts up to two years.
Warranty
The construction contract includes a warranty guaranteeing materials and workmanship for one year from the date of completion. The construction inspector conducts 6- and 11-month inspections during the warranty period. Upon notification, the contractor must repair defective items at no additional cost.