Many community sewer systems experience excess water during prolonged wet weather and after thunderstorms. After evaluation and some remedial repair work on the City of Ely sewers, occasional flooding still occurred. The lower part of Ely, near the Community Center and Fire Station, was the most vulnerable neighborhood.

A larger sewer pipe was necessary to alleviate the flooding since Ely is located in the growth corridor between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. Capacity improvements also were necessary to handle projected population growth. 

About 2,600 feet of new sanitary sewer, ranging in diameter from 12 inches to 21 inches, was designed and installed. The work included three creek crossings and a bore under a city street for an 18-inch sewer pipe. 

Some 1,200 feet of 6-inch water main also was installed to provide city water service to the wastewater treatment facilities and public works building.

MMS Consultants provided the following services: engineering studies, cost estimates, exploratory soil borings, design, construction plans, specifications, permitting and clearances, bidding services, and construction inspection and administration. 

MMS also attended landowner meetings, supported negotiations and prepared the easement plats.

Plan preparation began in December 2006. The construction contract was awarded in August 2007, and the new sewer became operational in April 2008. 

Total construction cost was $390,000. The project was funded by a low-interest loan through the Iowa DNR State Revolving Fund program.