Municipal Infrastructure Capital Improvement Planning — A Software Based Solution Better Than the Etch A Sketch

Abstract

How can you plan your Capital Improvement Budget without knowing the deterioration rate of your infrastructure? Software tools can assist asset managers in performing condition assessment, determining the deterioration rate of their municipal infrastructure (sewer, water, storm and roads) and producing capital improvement plans based upon time, budget and level of service. This presentation describes the use of CASS CIP®, an innovative Capital Improvement Planning (CIP) solution, and illustrates project results throughout the country. A common result of Asset Management Programs is to prioritize CIP projects and determine funding strategies. Municipal Infrastructure Capital Improvement Planning is like using an Etch A Sketch®. The left knob controls time, and the right knob adjusts money. The resulting picture that appears on the screen is the level of service and sustainability of your critical assets. Like effective Capital Improvement Planning, manipulating both knobs at once (time and money) is a true test of coordination.