This project hub serves as a central resource for updates, technical information, and insights into the AMP development process. It showcases the collaborative spirit and dedication of the project team, highlighting their commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring sustainable utility services for rural communities.

Transforming Aging Rural Buried Asset Infrastructure

Switz City Leads the Way with $650K Asset Management Plan Project

Rural municipalities and districts are confronted with a significant challenge

Their buried asset infrastructure is essential for their viability, yet constrained resources often lead to the neglect and degradation of these critical assets, without a well-defined remediation strategy.

This initiative aims to develop a structured and replicable framework to address this issue.

Switz City Stats

Population: 268 (2020 Census)

Size: 0.2 square miles

Population Density: 1,340 people per square mile

Number of Households: ~100

Average Household Size: 2.84

Median Household Income: $38,278

Per Capita Income: $24,312

Poverty Rate: 33.1%

Median Age: 29.4 years

Racial Composition: 99.65% White

Median Home Value: $84,117

Median Gross Rent: $708

Percentage with Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 3.8%

Project Details

Key Highlights

The use of advanced technologies for pipeline condition assessment (PCA).

The creation of a Manual of Practices (MOP) to guide AMP development across Indiana.

The commitment to training and education for utility professionals.

Project Summary

This project hub documents the transformative effort to develop a comprehensive Asset Management Plan (AMP) for Switz City, Indiana, a pilot project designed to serve as a replicable model for rural utilities across the state. Funded by a $650,000 grant from the Indiana Finance Authority (IFA), this initiative addresses the critical need for proactive infrastructure management, mandated by Indiana’s Senate Bill 272 (2022).

Spearheaded by the Buried Asset Management Institute – International (BAMI-I) in partnership with the Alliance of Indiana Rural Water (AIRW), and with significant technical support from Purdue University’s Underground Infrastructure Team (UIT), the project leverages a collaborative approach to tackle the unique challenges faced by small water utilities. Purdue UIT provides vital technical and administrative support, engaging graduate students in practical learning experiences and contributing to the development of the AMP. AIRW, representing over 1,000 rural water and wastewater systems, brings invaluable field expertise and facilitates crucial data collection and operational insights. The IFA’s substantial funding underscores the state’s commitment to supporting sustainable infrastructure improvements and ensuring regulatory compliance.

The project employs cutting-edge technologies, including acoustic testing, closed-circuit televising (CCTV), and satellite imaging, to conduct thorough assessments of Switz City’s water and wastewater infrastructure. The goal is to create a robust, risk-based AMP that not only addresses the immediate needs of Switz City but also establishes best practices for utilities statewide. This initiative aims to establish Switz City as a “Living Lab” for innovation, develop a Manual of Practices (MOP) to guide future AMP development, and provide essential training and education to utility professionals. Through the combined efforts of Purdue University, AIRW, and the IFA, this project is setting a new standard for rural infrastructure management, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and long-term sustainability.

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FAQ Section

Background & History 

Why is this project important to water industries especially in rural areas? 

Drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is subject to wear and tear over time, eventually reaching a point of failure. This deterioration leads to increased emergencies, which are often more costly to address than preventative measures.

To maintain reliable service delivery, including consistent water supply and efficient wastewater treatment, utilities must prioritize proactive management. A comprehensive risk-based asset management program is essential for achieving this goal.

Indiana Senate Bill 272 (2022)

Indiana has established itself as one of the leaders in water-related developments through a series of strategic initiatives and legislative actions. Key milestones include the 2015 evaluation of water utility planning, the 2016 requirement for water audits, and significant reports on financial needs for stormwater infrastructure and wastewater monitoring programs. The state further demonstrated its commitment with the 2019 publication of the Asset Management Program guidelines and the 2021 guidelines for the State Revolving Fund Loan Program. The signing of ISB 272 in March 2022 marks a significant step, positioning Indiana as a leader in water asset management. The Indiana Finance Authority (IFA) has been designated to oversee these efforts.

Small water utilities are facing challenges.

Small water utilities face numerous challenges in developing Asset Management Plans (AMP), including limited funding and human resources, difficulties in data collection and management, lack of professional knowledge and technical skills, complex regulatory compliance requirements, aging infrastructure, insufficient community support and awareness, and limited external support.