EPRHATA — The construction of the new water tower in Ephrata, which is part of a larger infrastructure improvement project, is making significant progress, according to Ray Towry, the city administrator. Despite some unforeseen challenges, the expectations remain optimistic for the completion of the project. 

“The wind tore up our tarp and exposed some of the paint,” Towry said. “There has also been a little bit of a disagreement that the contractor had to work through on the paint to fit city codes.”  

Towry detailed the ongoing enhancements to the water supply system in the northeast section of the city. He said the water tower is intrinsically linked with other vital components, including a booster station and various valves, aimed at improving water pressure.  

“The project has gone really, really well. We’ve been really pleased with all the general [contractors] and with all of the subs,” Towry said. 

He reassured the public that these delays would not significantly impact the overall timeline of the project, which had originally been anticipated to be completed by the end of October. 

When pressed for a revised timeline, Towry noted, "I know we were originally hoping this month, and it might get pushed back a little bit."  

He further assured, “It shouldn’t be a drastic delay.” 

As the project progresses, Towry remains hopeful that the water tower will be operational within the next four to six weeks.  

“Hopefully, in the next 4 to 6 weeks, we will be able to flip that switch and start filling the water tower. It’s going to take about two to three days, depending on the water demand,” he said.  

Towry also expressed appreciation for the contractors involved, specifically mentioning T Bailey, the primary contractor, who he noted "does this — this is their real specialty."