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Welcoming Hammond, IN, to the Century Club

In a momentous occasion, the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA) has proudly inducted the City of Hammond, Indiana, into its prestigious Century Club. This club honors municipalities that demonstrate a long-standing commitment to maintaining cast iron pipe systems, which have reliably served their communities for over a century.

A Legacy of Infrastructure

Established in 1947, the Century Club recognizes water utilities that have successfully operated cast iron mains for 100 years or more. For Hammond, this accolade is not just a badge of honor; it highlights the city’s foresight and dedication to investing in durable infrastructure capable of delivering safe drinking water across generations.

David Billings, DIPRA Regional Engineer, symbolically presented the certificate to the city, alongside key personnel from the Hammond Water Works Department, during a ceremony attended by city officials and community members.

Over the years, between 1899 and 1921, the City of Hammond installed three significant segments of cast iron pipe along Lake Avenue. The first was a 16-inch diameter pipe laid down in 1899, followed by a 24-inch diameter version in 1904, and a 36-inch pipe that was completed between 1916 and 1921. Remarkably, these original installations remain functional to this day, a testament to their strength and durability.

The Role of Ductile Iron Pipe Today

The introduction of modern Ductile Iron pipes reinforces Hammond’s commitment to maintaining robust water systems. David Cole, president of DIPRA, emphasized that the city’s choice to favor cast iron, and now Ductile Iron, reflects an enduring legacy. He stated, "Cast iron pipe set the standard for drinking water systems. The Century Club recognizes that legacy, and the City of Hammond deserves credit for investing in infrastructure built to last."

Hammond's water system, currently supported by over 350 miles of both cast and Ductile iron pipes, experiences remarkably few repairs considering its extensive size. Bruce Long, the Distribution Superintendent for the Hammond Water Works Department, expressed gratitude towards the engineers, board members, contractors, and employees whose tireless efforts established an efficient water supply system. He stated, "I would like to thank all of the engineers, board of directors, contractors, and water department employees whose dedication and hard work helped design and construct a water system that will benefit Hammond residents for years to come."

Choosing the Best Materials for the Future

Looking to the future, Long mentioned that when the city upgrades or replaces any existing infrastructure, Ductile Iron remains the material of choice, esteemed for its durability and ease of maintenance. "When performing water main extension projects or hot taps for new developments, Ductile iron is the most durable pipe to use," he added, highlighting the practical advantages of Ductile Iron.

More Than Just a Club

Being a part of the Century Club is not just about recognition; it serves as a platform for encouraging best practices in the water industry. Currently, over 550 water utilities in the United States and more than 35 in Canada are involved in DIPRA’s Century Club. Additionally, the association also hosts a Sesquicentennial Club, honoring those with cast iron pipelines in service for more than 150 years.

Hammond’s journey into the Century Club is a proud milestone that celebrates both the city’s rich history and its commitment to providing safe drinking water to its residents. It exemplifies how investing in quality infrastructure can yield lasting benefits, proving that a strong foundation takes more than just great material—it requires vision and dedication from the entire community.

DIPRA, founded in 1915, continues to be an essential resource for the water industry, advocating for the highest quality standards in pipe materials, ensuring safe water delivery for many more generations to come.