Application of Asset Health Monitoring to Buried Asset Management and Operations

The Research Priority Program grant opportunity titled “Application of Asset Health Monitoring to Buried Asset Management and Operations” is administered by the Water Research Foundation (WRF), a private, nonprofit organization known for supporting research that improves the quality and management of water services. This specific opportunity reflects WRF’s broader mission to promote science-based innovations for water utilities by advancing asset management practices, particularly for large-scale buried infrastructure systems like water transmission pipelines. The primary goal of this funding opportunity is to advance the application of asset health monitoring technologies in the management and operation of large diameter and transmission pipes. Applicants are expected to identify both existing and emerging technologies that support the structural and operational monitoring of buried assets. The program encourages the development of techniques and field verification methods that make these technologies practically applicable, reliable, and scalable in real-world water utility contexts. In addition, the grant aims to support the creation of models and guidelines that help correlate monitoring data to material degradation and operational conditions. Cases of successful use of such technologies in water industry applications beyond pipelines are also of interest. The total funding available for this project is $250,000. Funding is allocated for a single project, with the objective of producing outcomes that can be broadly implemented in utility operations. The funder does not specify a required cost share or matching requirement, suggesting a flexible funding structure conducive to diverse applicants, including utilities, academic institutions, and engineering consultants. However, applicants must prepare a comprehensive budget using the provided proposal forms. Applications must be submitted through WRF’s “My Portal” system, which requires users to have an organizational account. The application process includes filling out a cover worksheet, identifying key personnel, uploading mandatory forms such as budget documents and certification forms, and detailing whether the project involves a technology deliverable. Participating utilities are encouraged to support the project, and proposers should monitor updates to the volunteer list to enhance their proposal's applicability and strength. The submission deadline is November 20, 2025, at 3:00 PM Mountain Time. There are no preliminary application phases such as LOIs or concept papers, making this a single-stage application. Evaluation will likely focus on the project's technical merit, feasibility, relevance to utility needs, and the proposed team’s qualifications. Award and notification timelines are not specified, nor is a fixed performance period, but applicants should plan for a realistic timeline aligned with project scope and funding. For questions or clarifications, applicants are directed to contact Jian Zhang, the RFP point of contact. Supporting documents, including guidelines and budget instructions, are available for download directly from the RFP page. Although the grant does not specify a recurring cycle, its alignment with WRF's ongoing research priorities suggests potential for future rounds.

Monitor volunteer utility list frequently for potential project partnerships; use shared space for team collaboration on forms.