Navigating the Unknown—WASD Redundant Force Main Route Study

The Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department (WASD) has recognized the need for a redundant force main alongside an aging 36-in. force main serving Miami Gardens and Opa-Locka. This 3-mi force main, connecting Pump Stations 0306 and 1310 along NW 32nd Avenue, faces key challenges such as height restrictions near Opa-Locka Airport and heavy commercial traffic from an Amazon Distribution Center. The new force main will improve system capacity and redundancy, with the added benefit of connecting to another major force main for flexible sewer flow management. To determine the best route, Wade Trim conducted an extensive study that examined property data, utilities, traffic patterns, and environmental factors. The study evaluated five criteria—alignment, cost, safety, environmental impact, and long-term planning—using a scoring system. This process identified a route that minimizes traffic disruptions, utility conflicts, and maintenance detours, providing valuable insights for similar projects in complex settings.