Working within one of the most ecologically sensitive areas in the world, CDM utilized pre-chlorinated pipe-bursting methodology, an innovative trenchless technology approach, to rehabilitate 22,000 feet of existing water lines within Everglades National Park. New 2-, 4-, and 6-inch high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe was pre-chlorinated and installed within existing asbestos concrete and PVC lines by bursting the old pipe with a hydraulic bursting head. Pre-chlorination allowed the HDPE pipe to be bacteriologically disinfected and pressure tested above grade prior to installation, allowing it to be placed into service immediately after installation. In addition to replacing or upsizing existing mains, impact moling was utilized to install new service connections.
This is one of the largest applications of pre-chlorinated pipe-bursting technology in North America. Located at the southern tip of the Florida peninsula, the Flamingo area is the largest developed area within Everglades National Park and home to threatened and endangered species, such as the Eastern Indigo Snake, Florida Panther, Bald Eagle, and American Crocodile. By utilizing almost exclusively trenchless technology, disruptions to park operations were minimized and more importantly, wildlife within the park was not affected.
CLIENT: National Park Service
LOCATION: Everglades National Park, Florida