ReWa Utility Network Modernization

Transforming Utility Asset Management

Woolpert partnered with long-term client Renewable Water Resources (ReWa) to modernize and centralize their information by creating an Esri Utility Network for nine water resource facilities (WRRFs) and two administrative buildings, totaling 62 miles of linear assets.

The project included two key phases, beginning with a data completeness assessment. Unlike clients who already maintain utility information in a legacy Esri format, ReWa’s data existed primarily in CAD files and hard copy as-builts. Converting this information into a usable GIS format required a significant effort, including CAD-to-GIS data migration and heads-up digitizing of as-built drawings.

Client

Renewable Water Resources (ReWa)

Next, we designed and deployed a complete Esri Utility Network environment tailored to the WRRFs’ infrastructure. Each network model established standardized schemas, asset types, and connectivity rules to represent real-world relationships. Utility domains migrated include:

Domain Utility Network Type
Stormwater Stormwater Utility Network
Electric Electric Utility Network
Communications/Fiber Communications Utility Network
Potable Water Water Utility Network
Natural Gas Gas and Pipeline Referencing Utility Network

Utility Network Tailored for ReWa’s Enterprise System

Woolpert customized the utility network to align with ReWa’s operational needs. The result is a unified, enterprise geodatabase ready for efficient editing, analysis, and future expansion. Key features include:

  • Adherence to the project’s data creation and QA/QC plan.
  • Incorporation of ReWa’s standard attributes and domains.
  • Support for unique and consistent geodatabase naming conventions.
  • Validation of all connectivity logic with ReWa staff through collaborative QA/QC.

The project successfully delivered a robust geospatial foundation that enhances ReWa’s ability to manage critical infrastructure. Historically underserved plan staff can now visualize their 3D assets safely and confidently while performing dig operations. Additionally, the modernization unlocks the ability to:

  • Deliver comprehensive, accurate utility data across the WRRFs.
  • Improve operational efficiency through consistent GIS workflows.
  • Provide reliable network connectivity models for visualizing system behavior.
  • Support better planning and maintenance with modern, scalable architecture.
  • Strengthen long-term readiness for system growth, modeling, and advanced analytics.
  • Usher in the web‑GIS era by enabling field crews to run utility network traces on a tablet with the same performance as office‑based operations.
  • Position ReWa to be digital‑twin ready with a modern geospatial foundation.