A new 18-inch sewer main was completed and put into service this January on Vine Street, Lakewood, as part of the Vine Street – Phase 2 Sewer Main project. The new sewer main was installed by New Jersey American Water to help relieve the over-capacity stress on the existing sewer main along the US Route 9 corridor in southeastern Lakewood.

This project, in partnership with Lakewood Township, was essential to support growth in the southeastern area of the township. Steven Reinman, director of economic development for Lakewood Township, said, “This was the second part of a project needed by the community. It helps supports New Jersey American Water’s need to relieve flows on US Route 9, and it helps Lakewood Township coordinate needed sewers for future growth in a logical way.”

Donald Shields, VP of engineering at New Jersey American Water, said, “The project’s challenges included deep trench construction (greater than 25 feet) and the relocation of several utilities. Some of this construction was completed in high foot traffic areas, a route that included passing several schools and homes. Safety and security was a major concern for this project. The use of a portable fencing system and a dedicated security company was provided to minimize these risks.”

Shields added, “The project included the installation of 4,060 feet of 18-inch diameter pipe and the installation of nine manholes. The project route involved a portion of Oak Street, Halsey Street, Argyle Avenue, Broadway Avenue, and a connection to the existing Route 9 sewer. Oak Street is scheduled to be paved in the spring of 2015.”

Bil-Jim Construction (Construction Services) and Hatch Mott MacDonald Engineering (Design and Engineering Services) along with several team members both at New Jersey American Water and Lakewood Township all contributed to the success of this project.

Another New Jersey American Water project currently underway is the Western Lakewood Township Tank Project, which is in the construction phase. The tank, located off Massachusetts Avenue, will store one million gallons of water. Construction began in October 2014 and is expected to be completed and in service by August 1, 2015. The tank will stabilize water pressure and provide additional fire flow in this area.

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