LINWOOD, N.J. – June 20, 2023 – In a significant investment toward improving water infrastructure, New Jersey American Water has announced plans to replace over two miles of aging water main in Linwood and Northfield. The project, set to commence this month, aims to upgrade outdated water lines, some of which were initially installed as far back as the 1920s. The company will implement new 8- and 16-inch ductile iron main along various streets in the two municipalities.
The streets in Linwood that will undergo improvements include Shore Road, East Seaview Avenue, West Seaview Avenue, Iona Avenue, Dawn Drive, Myrtle Avenue, and Hamilton Avenue. In Northfield, the project will encompass Oak Avenue and Zion Road. Alongside the main replacements, fire hydrants and utility-owned service lines along the pipeline route will also be upgraded. Furthermore, New Jersey American Water will replace any customer-owned service lines identified as lead or galvanized as part of the state’s initiative to eliminate all such lines by 2031.
The $4.3 million investment made by New Jersey American Water will not only enhance water service reliability but also increase water flows for household consumption and bolster fire protection capabilities within the community. This initiative forms part of the company’s multimillion-dollar endeavor to expedite the renewal of water infrastructure that has surpassed its useful life in over 100 communities across the state.
Perna Finnigan Inc., a local and qualified contractor, has commenced work in Northfield this month and anticipates completing the project by the end of August. Pioneer Pipe Contractors, Inc. has also begun work in Linwood this week and expects to finish by early October, weather permitting. Work hours in Northfield will be from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, while in Linwood, it will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Unless necessary for project scheduling, work outside of these hours is not anticipated. Final street restorations are projected to be finalized in spring 2024.
Project timelines are subject to potential changes due to various factors, such as weather conditions and supply availability. New Jersey American Water advises its customers to stay updated by signing up for alerts through their MyWater accounts and following the company on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.
To ensure the safety of the public and workers involved, traffic restrictions and/or alternating traffic patterns are expected during work hours. However, emergency vehicles and local traffic will be permitted access during construction. New Jersey American Water places utmost importance on the well-being of its workers and advises caution to drivers and pedestrians in the vicinity of work sites.