CDOC AVCF Gas Line Service

The Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility was dealing with an aging, unreliable underground natural gas system. Leaky branch lines and deteriorating valves disrupted service to living units and failed to fully close, creating both inefficiency and risk. Most concerning, the failing system limited reliable gas delivery to the support building — home to essential cooking and laundry operations. For a facility that depends on continuous service, these problems carried high stakes.

Schendt Engineering partnered with the Colorado Department of Corrections to design and implement a comprehensive solution while keeping the facility fully operational. Our work included:

• Replacing the underground natural gas main distribution system with durable polyethylene piping.
• Installing new valves, gauges, tracer wire, and valve boxes to ensure safe, reliable operation and easier future maintenance.
• Extending a new gas line from the main branch north of Living Unit Four to the support building's gas entry.
• Maintaining uninterrupted 24/7 natural gas service to central plant boilers and kitchen/laundry facilities during construction.

• Consistent and reliable natural gas service to critical building operations.
• Reduced maintenance demands and risks associated with aging valves and leaks.
• Improved safety and efficiency, protecting both staff and facility functions.
• Long-term confidence in a system designed for durability and ease of service.

Our team understands the importance of reliable infrastructure in high-demand, no-fail environments. At Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility, we not only solved immediate issues but also provided a forward-looking system that ensures safe, continuous operations — allowing staff to focus on what matters most.