The Oak Ridge North City Council approved a $1.8-million bid for the installation of two 32-foot water storage tanks at a council meeting Feb. 11.

The council approved a contract with W.W. Payton Corporation, a Katy-based construction firm, which was the least expensive of three proposals. Oak Ridge North City Engineer Ed Shackelford said the bid included two add alternates: An epoxy coating for the tanks and a one-year extended warranty on items for the San Jacinto River Authority's Groundwater Reduction Plan.

Each tank can store up to 427,000 gallons of water, or 854,000 gallons combined, compared to the city's current tanks, which hold a combined 630,000 gallons. Council Member Tom Coale said the project would save about $250,000 more than the other proposed option of three 24-foot storage tanks and allow for a possible water well to be built at the location in the distant future.

"You have more cost-effective storage with two 32-foot tanks than with two 24-foot tanks," Coale said. "The extra eight feet gives us additional capacity if we need it and gives us a buffer if we need it."

Although change orders may alter the price over the course of the installation, he said the project may come in $300,000–$400,000 under the capital improvement plan. However, Coale requested the council's subcommittee remain intact during the construction to ensure the project runs smoothly.

The council approved the bid with Councilman Al Stahl as the only "no" vote.

Shackelford said the contracts could be completed in two weeks following the council's approval of contractor. He said it would take 60–90 days for the completion of documents and the installation of the groundwater storage tanks could begin in May.

For more information, visit Oak Ridge North's website, www.oakridgenorth.com