MAPLEWOOD, NJ — New Jersey American Water is preparing to replace approximately 200 feet of aging water main in Maplewood, according to an Oct. 8 press release. The company will upgrade the aging 12-inch cast iron water lines that were installed in the 1920s with new 16-inch ductile iron main along Oakland Road from Dunnell Road to Valley Street beneath the culvert.
This $1.5 million investment will continue to advance water service reliability and increase water flows for household consumption and fire protection in the community. This improvement is part of New Jersey American Water’s multimillion-dollar initiative to accelerate the renewal of water infrastructure that has reached the end of its useful life in more than 100 communities across the state.
New Jersey American Water’s local, qualified contractor, Vollers Excavating and Construction, has already begun the work and expects to be finished by the end of January 2022, weather permitting. Work hours will be from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Some work on nights and weekends may be required to maintain the project schedule. Final street restorations will be completed in the spring of 2022.
For the public’s and workers’ safety, traffic restrictions and alternating traffic patterns will occur during work hours. All emergency vehicles and local traffic will be allowed access during construction. Detour updates will be provided by the township on its website throughout the project. New Jersey American Water values the safety of its workers and advises drivers and pedestrians to take caution in the vicinity of worksites.
The company asks customers to recognize the essential work being done by its employees and contractors and reminds them to adhere to social distancing rules for everyone’s safety. If a customer sees a crew performing work in their area, and wishes to ask a question about it, they are encouraged to visit https://www.amwater.com/njaw/ or call customer service at 800-272-1325.