DOMINION BOULEVARD CORRIDOR STUDY | Chesapeake, Virginia
116 | Infrastructure Strategy
IMPLEMENTATION OF UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE
Overall Corridor Concept
Installation of the proposed utility infrastructure within the Dominion Corridor will
generally progress as development progresses. However, installation of key infrastructure
components will be required in the early stages of Corridor development. The proposed
HRSD Interceptor Force Main and water transmission main will serve as the backbone
for the future development outlined in the Program Allocations. These lines should be
installed during construction of the new proposed roadways. It is recommended that
sufficient space be allotted within the right-of-way for the built-out water and sewer
infrastructure capacity needs. Model analysis of the proposed HRSD Interceptor Force
Main and water transmission main may dictate that a smaller pipe be installed initially
while development progresses.
Funding Strategies
In years past, the traditional strategy for implementation of utility infrastructure in support
of economic growth and development throughout the City results in the burden of the
cost and installation of the infrastructure being that of the developer. This infrastructure
is typically installed as development expands and sizing is coordinated with the City.
Sewer and water infrastructure within the right-of-way would then be publicly owned and
maintained.
In support of future development throughout the Dominion Corridor, the City will install the
major transmission water main and HRSD will install their proposed Interceptor Force Main.
These lines will serve as the backbone for future development growth. Implementation
of the remaining utility infrastructure can be funded in a number of ways. The traditional
method of the developer installing all required utility infrastructure is still the current
policy. However, in order to generate interest amongst private investors, a new strategy
for the Corridor may need to be adopted. This will be an ever-changing strategy that will
adapt to bring investors to the Corridor. Strategies would include identifying cost sharing
opportunities between the City and the developer. One area of cost sharing could be
accomplished on the intermediate infrastructure located between developments and
the major transmission/interceptor lines. Another area of cost sharing could be on the
upsizing of pipe. Here, the City would size the new infrastructure to not only meet the
demands of the proposed development, but also future growth that would be supported
by this infrastructure. In these scenarios, the full burden of cost would not fall solely on
the Developers in hopes that this will generate interest throughout the Corridor. Another
option would involve the City installing infrastructure in advance of development. Funds
could then be recouped through Pro Rata payments from the developers. This option may
prove most appealing in the developers eyes due to the fact that their up front utility costs
may be signifcantly minimized to just their site and connection fees.
Traditionally, it has been uncommon for the City to install utility infrastructure at its
own expense in support of development activities. Implementing these new strategies
will require acceptance from City Council as well as a philosophical change in the way
development has been handled in the past. Strategies will need to be flexible to adapt to
the economic landscape and demand as development progresses through the years.
PROJECTED UTILITY SYSTEM COSTS
