Title
P-CAT Watermain Scanning - ITB #26-050
History
The Utility Division has been researching ways to determine the condition of larger watermains without excavating or disrupting service to residents for the purpose of replacing or rehabbing the larger mains, as it is very expensive due to their size.
Pipeline Condition Assessment Technology (P-CAT) is a non-invasive, non-destructive technology for performing pipe assessment. It can determine remaining wall thickness over long sections of pipeline, as well as detecting and locating defects such as air pockets, internal blockages, unknown connections, and pipe material changes.
P-CAT works by analyzing the partial reflection of a small, controlled transient signal that is injected into the pipeline using a fire hydrant. The signal is monitored and recorded by sensors that are temporarily installed on existing pipe fittings. The transient wave experiences partial reflection when it encounters any change in pipeline structure. The data is analyzed by a computer program, which sends out a location on the pipe where it picked up any defects.
This technology saves costs by locating defects within the pipeline and limiting repairs and replacements to only the sections in need of attention. To date, P-CAT is the most comprehensive and advanced solution for long distance pipelines.
The Utility Division will utilize P-CAT to scan all the Village’s watermains that are sixteen (16) inches and larger in diameter. By scanning all the larger mains, the Utility Division can start prioritizing which mains should be repaired or replaced before those mains start breaking with regularity.
On June 22, 2026, ITB #26-050 was posted on BidNet Direct and closed on July 7, 2026. Courtesy emails were sent to two (2) vendors. Nineteen (19) vendors viewed and downloaded at least one (1) of the documents on BidNet Direct. Only one (1) bid was received. The sealed bid was opened by the Village Clerk’s Office on July 7, 2026.
M.E. Simpson Co., Inc., of Valparaiso, Indiana -
Year 1 (2026/2027) - $9.75 per foot
Year 2 (2027/2028) - $9.75 per foot
Year 3 (2028/2029) - $9.75 per foot
Year 4 (2029/2030 - Optional Year) - $10.50 per foot
Year 5 (2030/2031 - Optional Year) - $10.50 per foot
The bid and the contractor were reviewed by Public Works Staff, and the contractor has been found to be capable of performing the work. Therefore, it is recommended that the bid from M.E. Simpson Co., Inc., of Valparaiso, Indiana, be accepted for the amount per foot. Total cost per year will be determined by the Village’s annual budgeted amount, with a minimum amount of 10,560 ft of watermain to be scanned per year.
This agenda item is being considered by the Committee of the Whole and the Village Board of Trustees on the same night.
Financial Impact
Funds are available in account 5008150-432500 and were budgeted at $150,000.00 for FY2026. Staff plans to budget up to $300,000.00 for other remaining years.
Recommended Action/Motion
I move to recommend to the Village Board approving the contract with M.E. Simpson Co., Inc. in an amount not to exceed $750,000.00, with an option to extend for an addition two (2) years at $300,000.00 per year, and as fully presented.
(Full motion - not necessary to be read)
I move to recommend to the Village Board to approving and authorizing the execution of a Contractor Agreement between the Village of Orland Park and M.E. Simpson Co., Inc., of Valparaiso, Indiana, as the lowest cost qualified responsive bid for ITB #26-050- P-CAT Watermain Scanning for three (3) year contract at a cost of $150,000.00 for Year 1, $300,000.00 for Year 2, and $300,000.00 for Year 3, for a not-to-exceed amount of $750,000.00 with the option for two (2) additional one (1) year terms at the Village’s discretion at a cost of $300,000.00 for Year 4 and $300,000.00 for Year 5 for a total not to exceed amount of $1,350,000.00.