Work to replace a deteriorated 382-foot sewer force main located under the Day Island Bridge began this week.

Sewer service will not be interrupted during the project, which is expected to be complete in mid-May. Traffic across the bridge will be reduced to one lane, and flaggers will assist motorists through the work area. Emergency vehicles and mail service will not be affected.

A temporary bypass system was installed in May 2012 after small holes caused by corrosion were discovered in the pipe.

The project begins with the installation of a scaffolding system below the bridge to allow easier access for pipe removal and installation. The old pipe will be removed and a new six-inch ductile iron pipe will be hung in its place beneath the bridge deck. The new pipe will be lined with a corrosion-proof coating and insulated with a rigid foam and polyethylene jacket. Once testing of the new force main line is complete, the temporary bypass will be removed.

Stan Palmer Construction is the project contractor. The $300,000 project is funded by sewer ratepayer fees.

The original line was installed in 1972 beneath the Day Island Bridge, which spans Day Island Inlet and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks.

For additional information about this project, please visit www.piercecountywa.org/sewer.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jeff Roscoe, Public Works and Utilities construction engineering and inspection supervisor
253-798-2119
jroscoe@co.pierce.wa.us

Callene Abernathy, Public Works and Utilities public information specialist
(253) 798-4661
caberna@co.pierce.wa.us