A Contingency Reserve

Before initiating the design stage for this project, MWY conducted a capacity analysis of the existing wastewater collection system as part of the Bentonville’s Facilities Planning process.

The analysis, based on the city’s desire to provide service for future growth areas, revealed that excess infiltration / inflow robbed the system of reserve capacity during heavy rainfall. Recognizing the limited reserve capacity of the existing collection system and treatment facilities, we determined that the most efficient and cost-effective solution would be a sanitary sewer system rehabilitation program with flow equalization facilities.

As there was insufficient land to build the needed infrastructure at the treatment facility, the lift station and steel-reinforced concrete flow equalization basins were located at the new McKissic Creek lift station site to control extraneous wastewater pumped to the plant during heavy rains.

Blending into the Neighborhood

The MWY staff designed this sewage lift station for anticipated development within the local drainage basin, creating a configuration that will allow expansion up to 5 million gallons per day. It also was planned to be a good neighbor in a residential development.

To deal with floodplain and permitting issues, the pumping station was built on a residential lot in the Har-Ber Meadows subdivision. And because it was situated in the middle of a neighborhood, the exterior superstructure was designed to look like just another residence. Additionally, we minimized the potential noise impact of the station’s natural-gas-fired emergency generator by including sound-absorption panels in the walls and ceiling.

Residential design enhancements also included a beveled glass front door, Pella windows with enclosed mini-blinds and architectural shingles, as well as landscaping that fits into the subdivision. And to minimize maintenance costs, our staff selected long-lasting building materials such as brick and vinyl siding.