Lloydminster is looking at replacing one of its water screens that was installed in 1982.
The travelling water screen is responsible for removing large debris from river water. In July 2024, the screen was taken offline due to a mechanical failure.
An assessment was conducted by Evoqua Water Technologies, indicating a significant number of parts that need to be replaced.
Given the age of the screen, parts are no longer in the normal production schedule and the supplier recommends a full replacement. The repair of the screen would be more costly than simply installing a new screen.
“We had asked for two proposals, one was just to repair, that cost is significantly higher than actually doing a full replacement, the reason being is the original material is no longer in production. So, it would have to be custom produced for the city and at the same time, we wouldn’t have any warranty if we did a repair,” said Karen Dela Rosa, director of environmental services.
Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers says these projects are important to complete.
“Certainly, this is very important as we’ve discussed in this council chamber for the last couple of years, most recently with the city of Calgary’s water experiences. I think we’d be in deep trouble if we didn’t give good direction to administration to ensure we have a good supply of clean drinking water and be able to bring it out of the river,” he said.
Equipment delivery is anticipated in May 2025 with the dive crew scheduled for installation shortly after. Installation is expected to be completed in 10 days.
This project was included in the 2025 capital budget request in the amount of $1,025,000 to be funded by Environmental Services Capital Reserve and Cenovus Energy.
Council approved two motions related to this project.
The first motion saw council commit $619,680 from the Environmental Services capital reserve for the project.
The other motion had council approve the sole source procurement award of the river intake travelling water screen replacement equipment supply and installation to Evoqua Water Technologies in the amount of $530,180.
Read more: Council looks to fund intersection project through grant
Locally owned and community driven, the Lloydminster Meridian Source is the online news source in the Border City. Whether it’s breaking news, features or sports, if you have questions about what’s going on around town, Source it with us.
Since online platforms no longer support the sharing of news, we encourage you to bookmark meridiansource.ca. Whether you’re having a coffee or enjoying a meal, check in any time for the most up-to-date news in Lloydminster.
