Introduction
The Wright-Pierce calendar series highlights infrastructure projects and the people and communities they serve. In Montville, Connecticut, the Cook Hill Water Storage Tank Replacement project addressed the long-term needs of an important part of the Town’s drinking water system.
Project Background
The existing 590,000-gallon welded-steel tank was constructed in 1999 and served the Town well. Over time, however, its coating began to fail. Because repainting the tank would require a substantial investment, Wright-Pierce evaluated feasible alternatives and prepared a cost analysis for the Town of Montville Water Pollution Control Authority. The Town selected replacement with a new 535,000-gallon glass-fused-to-steel tank as the option with the lowest life-cycle cost, and the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CTDPH) subsequently approved this approach.
Project Team Services
Wright-Pierce provided an existing conditions evaluation, alternatives cost analysis, engineering design, and construction administration under a continuing services contract. The project team also assisted the Town with financing, including a grant through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) administered by the CTDPH.
CST Industries manufactured the replacement tank. Its manufacturing process permanently bonds a glass coating to the interior and exterior surfaces of the steel panels. This removes the need for future coating applications and lowers anticipated maintenance costs over the tank’s service life.
The project also incorporated an internal mixer, surface aerator, and roof-mounted blower to reduce trihalomethanes and improve water quality. Regional Group Leader Mariusz Jedrychowski, PE, oversaw the study, design, and construction administration phases of this project.
About the Photo
Project Manager Barry Parfitt, PE, captured the photo of the completed water tank. According to Barry, “Wright-Pierce partnered with the Town of Montville to design and oversee construction of a new 535,000-gallon glass-fused-to-steel water storage tank, placed into service in 2025. The tank incorporates advanced mixing and aeration systems to improve water quality and support reliable distribution system performance.”
Project Impact
Montville’s distribution system uses multiple pressure zones to maintain acceptable water pressure for customers. The new tank supports stable pressure throughout the system and helps improve the availability of large volumes of water in the event of a fire. By selecting a glass-fused-to-steel tank, the Town also reduced future coating requirements while supporting long-term water quality and system reliability.
To learn more about Wright-Pierce drinking water planning, design, and construction services, contact us today.