News Flash

The public is invited

On Monday, March 20, 2023 at 6 p.m. the Department of Water Management will host a virtual public meeting for the Lakewood Avenue Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project. The public is invited to attend via Zoom. Representatives from the Department of Water Management and Public Works Department, along with the Engineering Project Manager and contractor will make a short presentation regarding the project and then answer questions from the public. Register to attend the Public Meeting.

Lakewood avenue sanitary sewer Replacement Project FACTS

1. This project will replace and upsize an existing sanitary sewer line along Lakewood Avenue from Duke Street to Roxboro Street. 
2. Approximately 2,700 linear feet of 12-inch to 18-inch sanitary sewer will be replaced with 24-inch sanitary sewer. The project also includes limited waterline replacements and the stabilization and enhancement of an existing stream near the American Tobacco Trail.
3. Construction is expected to begin in May 2023.

project area

Click on image for full-size map of project area

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Why is this work needed, what is included, and how long will it take?
   This project will replace undersized sanitary sewer lines along the project area to meet near-term and long-term sanitary sewer flow projections. Approximately 2,700 feet of sewer lines along Lakewood Avenue between Duke Street and Roxboro Street will be replaced. Also, sanitary sewer service connections along this corridor will be reconnected to the new sewer line. The project will be paid for by previously authorized capital improvement program (CIP) funds. Sanitary sewer construction is anticipated to last approximately 12 months.
   
   
2. What impacts can be expected during Construction phase of the project?
   1. Prior to construction beginning, maintenance of traffic signs and devices will be installed for vehicular traffic and pedestrian impacts.
   2. Traffic lane shifts and roadway closures with detours will be in place during various phases of construction.
   3. Large construction equipment will be used to install new manholes, sanitary sewer, and other associated underground work.  
   4. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to be between 70 and 90 decibels, with some work in high traffic areas occurring during overnight and weekend hours.
   5. Following installation in roadway areas, pavement will be patched along the trench used for installation. Following all installations, further asphalt restoration (i.e. mill and overlay) will be completed.
   6. Temporary water and sewer service interruptions (if necessary) will be coordinated with residences and businesses at least 7 days in advance.
3. Will my business/property be impacted during the construction phase of this project?
   1. Construction will not occur on private properties.  All construction will be within rights-of-way or utility easements. All property owners will be provided notice in advance of construction near their property.
   2. There will be pedestrian, traffic, and noise impacts during construction.
   3. The City’s contractor will be required to maintain access to residences and businesses at all times.
   4. Sound levels near active construction areas are anticipated to be between 70 and 90 decibels, with some work in high traffic areas occurring during overnight and weekend hours.
   5. Appropriate communication and signage will direct property owners, residents, and visitors to the Lakewood Avenue and Downtown Durham areas with regards to any impacts throughout construction.
   6. At the completion of the project, disturbed areas along roadways and sidewalks will be repaved, and lawns will be graded and reseeded.
4. How will I know about detours, changes in traffic patterns, etc.?
   In addition to other notifications, look for signs. We'll have them out to help give direction to property owners, residents, and visitors in the Lakewood Avenue and Downtown Durham areas. These signs will indicate detours, changes in traffic patterns, and access issues around the construction. Disturbed areas along roadways and sidewalks will be repaved, and lawns will be graded and reseeded at the end of the project.
5. Will my sanitary sewer service be affected by this project?
   Once the project enters the construction phase, existing sanitary sewer services in the project area will be reconnected to the newly installed sewer mains. It is possible that customers will have short sanitary sewer service interruptions (typically a few hours) while this transition takes place. Property owners will be notified in advance regarding any planned service disruptions.
6. How do I get more information?
   The City will provide status updates via the City website Project www.durhamnc.gov/3976 or https://durhamnc.gov/3976/Lakewood-Avenue-Sewer-Replacement-Projec. Or attend the public meeting on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 6 p.m. Video of the meeting will be posted on the project page. Meeting details below.

For additional information, contact Principal Engineer, Lisa Mitchell, by Email or phone 919-560-4381 ext. 35568.