Van Cleef recently had the opportunity to share its expertise at the New Jersey League of Municipalities (NJLM) Convention, presenting “Municipal Infrastructure: Asset Management Planning and Budgeting.” The learning session, led by Thomas R. Decker, PE, PP, CME; Irene K. Battaglia, PE; and Mason Herrman, GISP, guided attendees through the critical process of developing a comprehensive Asset Management Plan (AMP) a key tool for municipalities seeking to improve efficiency, plan investments, and extend the service life of their infrastructure.
The presentation walked through the six essential steps of asset management: inventory, assessment, analysis, renewal strategy, budgeting, and mapping. Each phase is built on the next, helping public works departments and municipal leaders make informed, proactive decisions about their infrastructure. By leveraging accurate data, performance tracking, and financial forecasting, municipalities can reduce long-term costs and improve the quality of services delivered to residents.
A major focus of the session was the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in asset management. GIS provides a dynamic way to visualize infrastructure assets, such as sewer networks, roadways, and utilities, and track their condition and maintenance history. By linking data directly to spatial maps, decision-makers gain a powerful, unbiased view of where investments are needed most. This technology transforms asset management from a reactive process into a forward-thinking strategy.
The team also shared insights from the Clinton Sewer Department, where Van Cleef developed a structured asset management and budgeting program. The case study illustrated how data-driven analysis and condition-based renewal strategies can help municipalities prioritize repairs, improve reliability, and meet regulatory requirements under the Water Quality Accountability Act.
Asset Management Plans are not static documents; they evolve over time as infrastructure ages and conditions change. With a well-developed AMP, municipalities can anticipate challenges, secure funding for capital improvements, and maintain continuity through staff transitions.
Missed the session? Watch the full presentation now to learn how Van Cleef’s multidisciplinary team helps communities plan, prioritize, and protect their infrastructure for the future.
