BELFIELD, ND — Infrastructure upgrades are in progress in Belfield as the city addresses the challenges posed by an aging lift station.
The station's current pumps are outdated, necessitating custom-made parts—a costly solution, according to engineers.
"It has reached its expected lifespan; it's time to consider a project to either replace or refurbish the station," says Shannon Hewson, an engineer with Brosz Engineering.
The lift station operates with two pumps; if one fails, the other serves as a backup. However, "There is no immediate threat; losing another pump, though, would pose a significant risk of improperly treated sewage," Hewson adds.
Funding replacement is a primary hurdle. "The biggest challenge small communities face is the exorbitant cost," Hewson explains.