Besides being easier and more economical to maintain, the new sewerage system will improve the water quality in the straits of Johor and Singapore , increasing the attractiveness of waterfront development along the northern coast. By putting the system underground, approximately 290 hectares (717 acres) of land will be made available for more beneficial development.

"Since 1945, Singapore has expanded its land area by some 25 percent by filling in shallow coastal areas," says Richard. "The DTSS brings major benefits to a country that places a high value on land for development."

Because of Singapore's strong commitment to public infrastructure, K.S. sees it as a unique place to work as an engineer. More than three million people live on the 618-square-kilometer (239-square-mile) island city-state; continued investments in transit, highways and other public infrastructure are planned to serve the growing population. "Singapore is really moving forward. To see all our new civil works and PB's contribution to them is very satisfying to me," says K.S.