Collection Systems
We bring years of local experience to each project in Golden, Colorado, focusing on practical engineering that keeps sewage safely contained and flowing smoothly. Whether we’re modeling a brand-new sewer network or fixing issues in an older system, our team pays attention to the details that matter — from pipe slopes and materials to preventing excess groundwater from seeping into the lines. We work closely with local regulators to meet all requirements because our goal is to deliver a collection system that not only works well from day one but also protects public health and the Colorado environment for the long haul.
How We Approach Your Project
Data Collection and System Assessment
We start by gathering records, GIS data, and field observations. This information helps us understand the condition of your pipes, manholes, and pump stations. Our team also reviews historical flow data to see how the system has responded under past conditions.
Modeling and Analysis
Next, we use software like SWMM, PCSWMM, or SewerCAD to create a virtual representation of your collection system. We calibrate the model with real flow and rainfall data to ensure accuracy. By simulating different scenarios, we pinpoint current and future bottlenecks, potential overflow locations, and inflow and infiltration hotspots.
Planning and Design
With clear modeling results, we recommend system upgrades that target problem areas. These upgrades may include pipe replacements, parallel sewers, lift station enhancements, or inflow reduction measures. Our designs follow local and state regulations, incorporate input from stakeholders, and align with your capital improvement plans.
Implementation and Ongoing Support
During construction, we collaborate with contractors, monitor progress, and ensure the project meets quality standards. We remain available for troubleshooting, design refinements, and post-construction evaluations. By combining thorough planning with responsive support, we help you achieve long-term collection system reliability.
Why a Well-Designed Collection System Matters
A sanitary sewer collection system carries wastewater from homes, businesses, and institutions to treatment facilities. Over time, these networks can become strained by population growth, aging infrastructure, and inflow and infiltration (I&I). A well-planned and properly maintained collection system prevents sewer overflows, protects waterways, and reduces costly emergency repairs. By modernizing older systems or designing new ones from the ground up, communities can improve public health and reduce environmental risks.
Our Comprehensive Collection System Services
Modern Engineering Solutions offers a full range of services to meet your collection system needs. Each project starts with a thorough assessment of current conditions. From there, we use data-driven methods to plan improvements that are both feasible and cost-effective. Our core services include:
Before we put a shovel in the ground, we build your sewer system virtually. Using modeling tools like SWMM or SewerCAD, we simulate how wastewater will move through your pipes — under dry weather, storms, and peak usage. If a section backs up or bottlenecks, we catch it early and fix it on paper. Whether you’re building a new system or upgrading an old one, we make sure the layout, pipe sizes, and slopes are dialed in for both today’s use and tomorrow’s growth. Good design starts with understanding how the system behaves — and that’s what we do best.
- Collection System Planning
- Sanitary Collection Modeling – SWMM, PCSWMM, SewerCAD
- Collection System Capacity Analysis
- Collection System Operations Analysis
- Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Elimination Study and Design
- Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) Elimination Study and Design
- Sanitary Sewer Rate Studies
If your sewer system fills up fast during a storm, chances are clean water is getting in where it shouldn’t. That’s I&I. We look for the trouble spots — maybe it’s cracked pipes, old manholes, or illegal sump pump connections. We use real-world tools like smoke testing and flow meters to track it down. Then we design smart fixes that don’t break your budget, like sealing joints or lining pipes. Less clear water in your system means fewer backups, lower treatment costs, and way less stress on your infrastructure.
Many sewer systems need lift stations to push wastewater uphill when gravity alone can’t do the job. Our engineers design these pump stations to be robust, efficient, and low-maintenance. We choose pumps that can handle the expected flow and calculate the right size for the wet well (the holding tank) so the station won’t get overwhelmed at peak use. We also design the control system to keep everything running safely and include backup power and odor control. If you have an older lift station, we can modernize it with new pumps and controls. In every case, we ensure your lift station fits seamlessly into the rest of your collection system and meets all required safety and regulatory standards.
Even a great engineering design won’t get built without the right permits. Our team helps you navigate the permitting maze for your collection system project so nothing falls through the cracks. We coordinate with all the necessary agencies — from the local planning department to Colorado state environmental regulators — to keep your project on track. That includes preparing and submitting permit applications, technical reports, and any environmental studies required. We know what reviewers are looking for, so we address questions up front to avoid costly delays. By letting us handle the regulatory side, you can be confident your collection system project meets every requirement and will get approved on schedule.
Upgrading a sewer system isn’t cheap, and we get that. That’s why we help you find the funding to get it done. Whether it’s a state revolving loan or a federal grant, we’ll track what’s available and show you what’s worth applying for. More importantly, we’ll help write the technical parts of the application — the engineering reports, estimates, and justifications that funding agencies want to see. We don’t just design pipes; we help you get the money to put them in the ground.
Why Choose MES
We’re based right here in Golden, and we work with towns across Colorado — from mountain districts to fast-growing suburbs. Every place has its quirks, whether it’s steep terrain, old infrastructure, or strict local rules. We’ve seen them all. That local experience helps us design systems that fit your site and pass the first round of review. And because we live here too, you’ll always get answers fast — no out-of-state delays, no one-size-fits-all solutions. Just a hometown team that knows how to get your project built.
Michael Groselle, PE
CEO/Founder
Contact Us
Contact Modern Engineering Solutions in Golden, CO to learn more about our collection system services and discover how we can help your community maintain a safe, efficient, and dependable sanitary sewer infrastructure. Our engineering professionals are ready to guide you through every stage of your project, from initial analysis to final construction. Let us design a reliable and future-proof collection system that supports your community’s growth and safeguards public health.