Understand the causes of failing pipe systems, renewal methods, and the details of comprehensive pipe renewal programs.

Many of America's cities are suffering from extensive failures of water mains with severe consequences for critical facilities and public confidence in water utilities. Symptoms of broken systems range from leaks and breaks to systemic public health issues, such as the recent experience in Flint, Michigan that attracted public attention to drinking water threats and government failure. Failing systems usually show ineffective condition assessment and planning, along with inadequate political support and funding. In some cases, cities may be unable to afford the needed renewal programs. The starting place to restore systems is with a comprehensive pipe renewal program based on asset management and effective data management and risk assessment. These should lead to business strategies for renewal investments that make effective cases for funding. The program will explain causes of failing pipe systems, renewal methods, and the details of comprehensive pipe renewal programs that use research-based approaches to win public and political support for the funding needed in long-term renewal programs.