Work is set to begin in the coming weeks on what the city describes as a critical watermain renewal project in east Saint John.
Infrastructure will be upgraded along McAllister Drive from Mountain View Drive to Loch Lomond Road.
“This important infrastructure upgrade will help ensure the continued reliability of water service in the area by replacing aging infrastructure nearing the end of its service life,” the city said in a news release.
The existing watermain, which is over 30 centimetres in diameter, helps supply drinking water to thousands of homes and businesses and supports three pressure zones across Saint John, according to the city.
“Over the past decade, this section of pipe has failed multiple times, most recently between Mountain View Drive and Loch Lomond Road,” said the Shape Your City Saint John website.
“During that repair, signs of long-term deterioration were found — prompting the need for proactive replacement to avoid future service disruptions.”
Construction on phase one is expected to start in mid-to-late August and continue until October, according to the city.
Traffic will be reduced to two lanes throughout the project, and there will be a planned water interruption in the Forest Hills and Golden Grove Road areas at some point.
“Advance notice will be provided to all affected households to help them prepare for the disruption,” said the city.
A public information session will take place at the Irving Oil Field House (129 McAllister Drive) next Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.
City staff will be available to answer questions and provide details on construction timelines, traffic management and communication plans.
