The PCL DC Water infrastructure upgrades project will modernise key pumping and storage facilities in Washington, D.C., as part of a long-term programme to improve drinking water system resilience.
PCL Construction has been awarded a $146 million progressive design-build contract by DC Water to deliver upgrades to potable water pumping stations, reservoirs and associated infrastructure.
First progressive design-build project for DC Water
The project represents DC Water’s first use of a progressive design-build delivery model, which enables earlier collaboration between the utility, contractor and engineering teams during project development.
This approach is intended to improve coordination, accelerate decision-making and identify construction challenges earlier in the delivery process.
PCL is working alongside design partner Carollo Engineers on the infrastructure programme.
Upgrades focused on reliability and system resilience
The PCL DC Water infrastructure upgrades project includes improvements to two potable water pumping stations and two water storage reservoirs.
The scope also includes upgrades to the Anacostia 3rd High Pressure Zone, alongside associated piping and valve infrastructure.
According to DC Water, the project is designed to strengthen long-term reliability, improve system capacity and address ageing infrastructure across the network.
Construction and phased implementation are expected to continue through to March 2031.
What the PCL DC Water infrastructure upgrades project means for the sector
The PCL DC Water infrastructure upgrades project reflects broader investment trends across the US water sector, where utilities are increasingly focused on resilience, capacity improvements and long-term asset renewal.
Many water systems in North America are operating with ageing infrastructure that requires substantial modernisation to maintain reliability and accommodate changing demand patterns.
Progressive design-build models are also gaining traction in infrastructure delivery as utilities seek greater collaboration and flexibility during complex projects.
By integrating design and construction teams earlier in the process, utilities can potentially reduce delivery risks, improve scheduling efficiency and adapt more effectively to unforeseen conditions.
For more on drinking water infrastructure and utility investment, visit our Water Management coverage.
Long-term investment in urban water systems
Urban water systems face growing pressure from population growth, ageing assets and climate-related challenges, increasing the need for strategic infrastructure investment.
Projects involving pumping stations, reservoirs and pressure management systems are critical to maintaining consistent drinking water supply and operational resilience.
As utilities continue to modernise networks, collaborative delivery approaches and phased infrastructure programmes are likely to become increasingly common across the sector.
Further developments in drinking water infrastructure can be explored in our Drinking Water section.
