Pipeline Alignment Scoring Considerations

The Lake Nighthorse Raw Water Supply Line project in Durango, Colorado, is being designed to convey water from Lake Nighthorse to the Santa Rita Pump Station (SRPS). Taking into consideration factors ranging from cost to cultural resource protection, an alternative alignment analysis was performed to determine the best route of travel for the pipeline. Assigning each potential route within the same reaches an individual score to be compared against each other guided the discussion of which route for each reach appeared to be the best option. This exercise provided perspective on the truly important factors to consider, necessitating adaptability and compromise to be made from all stakeholders to maintain holistic efficiency for the entire pipeline system.