One of Allen’s next painting projects will take place 150 feet in the air.
The city will spend $1.1 million to repaint the inside and roof of the Rowlett water tower, located off Exchange Parkway and Raintree Drive, along with a ground-level storage tank (inside and out) at Stacy Road.
The coating systems on steel structures, such as water towers, last approximately 12-15 years. The water tower was last painted in 2001; re-coating was recommended during the most recent annual inspection to ensure continued water quality.
A contractor will apply a new coat of epoxy paint inside the tower and tanks. The tower’s Eagle design will not be impacted.
Because the tower must be emptied during repainting, work will take place during winter months when water consumption is at its lowest. Residents will not notice any interruption in service or change in water pressure.
The water tower project was among several maintenance contracts authorized by Allen City Council on Jan. 24. Grass on city greenbelts, right-of-ways, medians and easements will be mowed by one contractor; street sweeping services will be provided by another.
For each project, contractors submit competitive bids to the City of Allen Purchasing Division, which makes selections based on factors including cost, efficiency, reputation and job related experience. The division has been recognized by several national agencies for its outstanding efforts in saving taxpayer dollars.