Work Underway to Replace Water Main

Work is in full swing along Sierra Madre Boulevard as contractors move to replace a 90-year-old water main. Construction began on Aug. 15.

As of Tuesday, Aug. 23, work had progressed all the way from the City of Sierra Madre maintenance yard to the intersection of Sierra Madre Boulevard and Holdman Avenue.

The project will replace a major portion of a 90-year old water main with a new 12-inch diameter main, according to city officials. The project will also provide brand new fire hydrants and new water services to each residence or business within the project area.

That project area extends along the north side of Sierra Madre Boulevard from the city's maintenance yard next to , all the way west to the intersection with Baldwin Avenue.

The project is being handled by contractor Stephen Doreck Equipment Rentals, Inc., who is under contract with the city. The work is expected to be completed by Thursday, Oct. 20.

The city released the following statement as work began on the project:

"Thank you for your patience with this project and for bearing with the unavoidable inconveniences that it will bring. Please be assured that everything possible will be done to minimize project impacts on the City’s residents and water customers, including traffic congestion, noise, and dust."

Traffic

According to a city press release announcing potential traffic delays related to the construction, the contractor will keep two-way traffic lanes open on the south side of the street while they dig and install the new pipe on the north side. This will require parking restrictions in the work areas, and signs have already been posted noting where residents should not park.

All driveways, both residential and otherwise, will be accessible for vehicles by the end of each construction work day, according to the city.

What's more, the contractor has assured the city that all open trenches will be covered with temporary asphalt or steel plates as they end each work day.

Patch will provide updates on traffic conditions throughout the construction process, especially if any of the initial plans are changed and other detours or delays are announced.

Trash Pickup

Athens Services has been notified of the project and will work with affected residents to maintain normal trash pickup service in the project area. Though, Athens has said that minor and temporary scheduling changes may be required in order to avoid interfering with the work.

Transit Access

The Los Angeles Metro Transit Authority, which operates public bus lines along Sierra Madre Boulevard, has also been notified of the work schedule. According to the city, MTA has confirmed that the service of Line 268 will continue throughout the construction process, though some bus stops may be temporarily impacted.

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