CME Urban Infrastructure Design & Development 3

Question 1

What is the primary function of a lift station (pump station) in a municipal sewer system?

Accepted Answer

To pump sewage from lower to higher elevations where gravity flow is not feasible

Answer

Lift stations use pumps to move sewage uphill when the terrain prevents gravity flow to the wastewater treatment facility.

Question 2

Which federal act primarily governs the quality of drinking water in US municipal systems?

Accepted Answer

Safe Drinking Water Act

Answer

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) of 1974 authorizes EPA to set standards for drinking water quality in public water systems.

Question 3

In roadway design, what does the 'level of service' (LOS) metric primarily measure?

Accepted Answer

Quality of traffic flow and driver experience on a roadway

Answer

LOS is a qualitative measure (A through F) describing operating conditions in a traffic stream, with A being free flow and F representing breakdown.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a retention pond in urban stormwater management?

Accepted Answer

To permanently store water and release it slowly through evaporation and infiltration

Answer

Retention ponds permanently hold water and manage stormwater through evaporation, infiltration, and plant uptake rather than discharging to outfall.

Question 5

Which geotechnical test is most commonly used to evaluate subgrade soil bearing capacity for pavement design?

Accepted Answer

California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Test

Answer

The CBR test measures the shear strength of subgrade soils relative to crushed stone, providing a key input for flexible pavement thickness design.

(CME) Certified Municipal Engineer Practice Test