Tacoma Public Utilities is one of the largest public utility providers in the nation, and is known for its exceptional services that around 200,000 customers rely on daily. The utility is split into three sections: power, rail, and water. Their primary objective is to provide reliable, economic, and safe utility services to customers. Today, we will delve into Tacoma Public Utilities Water, its services, treatment process, the water quality and how it ensures a sustainable water supply for its customers.
Reliable Water Supply
Tacoma Public Utilities relies on the Green River for its primary water supply[^1^]. This river is a major water body with origins in the Cascade Range. The supply from this primary source guarantees the availability and quality. The utility also obtains water from wells situated in the South Tacoma area as a secondary source.
Furthermore, the utility manages the water system infrastructure effectively, ensuring high-quality water supply in both the commercial and residential sectors. This includes water mains, treatment facilities, wells, reservoirs, and booster stations.
Water Treatment Process
To maintain its high-quality water supply, Tacoma Public Utilities Water follows a rigorous water treatment process[^2^]. Initially, the water undergoes pre-treatment where solid particles are filtered out. The first disinfection process happens next, where chlorine is added to kill harmful microbes. After that, the water treatment involves pH adjustment to prevent corrosion of pipes.
The utility then uses a coagulation process to remove small, remaining particles before the water goes through sedimentation and filtration. Afterward, the water is disinfected a second time before distribution.
Unmatched Water Quality
Tacoma Public Utilities Water places high importance on the quality of the water it delivers. The quality targets are set beyond the standards established by federal and state drinking water regulations. Continuous monitoring of the water’s microbiological, physical, and chemical characteristics ensures it stays at the highest standard.
The Tacoma Water lab processes about 10,000 samples every year. A team of skilled technicians conduct about 20,000 tests to make sure the water is safe to drink. Disinfected water that leaves the primary water treatment facility is also re-examined to ensure the standards are maintained.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Measures
Tacoma Public Utilities Water understands the need for conservation of water and has instigated various programs to reduce water waste and encourage efficient usage[^3^]. The utility offers its customers rebate programs for installing water-efficient appliances, fixtures, and irrigation systems. These programs aim to reduce water consumption and improve the sustainability of the water supply.
Moreover, Tacoma Public Utilities focuses on keeping water rates affordable for its customers. With a lower rate for the first units of water consumed, the utility encourages conservation. It’s important to note that the rate structure provides funding for the maintenance and operation of the water system, ensuring a consistent water supply.
In Conclusion
Tacoma Public Utilities Water successfully provides reliable, high-quality, and affordable water supplied in an eco-friendly manner to its residents. The exceptional services coupled with the modern water treatment processes and various programs aimed at environmental sustainability rank Tacoma Public Utilities Water among the top public utility providers in the country.
The commitment and the effort that the Tacoma Public Utilities puts into ensuring the quality and continual supply is commendable. Their work gives the citizens of Tacoma one less thing to worry about in their day-to-day lives.
[^1^]: Green River Watershed, Tacoma Public Utilities
[^2^]: Water treatment process, Tacoma Public Utilities
[^3^]: Water conservation programs, Tacoma Public Utilities
