Construction starting soon on Ishpeming’s $16M sewer project
ISHPEMING, Mich. (WJMN) — A big construction project is set to start soon in Ishpeming.
On Monday, crews will begin a city-wide effort to replace the municipality’s aging sewer system.
The first phase of the project will take place on Ash, Hickory, and Hemlock streets. The work there is expected to be completed within a month’s time.
Map showing zone of first stage of Ishpeming’s sewer project.
City Manager Craig Cugini says the current system is on its last legs, with the bulk of the sewers being over 70 years old. In all, over 25,000 feet of sewer main lines are set to be replaced.
In a release, the city tells us contractors are working under a “dig once” policy to limit disruption and take full advantage of the opportunity to take care of other maintenance tasks while the systems are exposed. Some of those tasks include:
Installation of new PVC pipe via open cut throughout the city
Reinforcing existing pipes located in wetlands, the Carp River and other sewers where open cut is impractical
Backup generators and pump replacements for all eight lift stations
A new, 30-inch diameter Carp River sewer crossing installed via directional drilling that will provide a redundant crossing, which is critical in times of high water and heavy flow
The American Rescue Plan is footing the bill for half of the project’s $16 million price tag, with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy providing a municipal bond for the rest.
The city will announce the next steps in construction as the project progresses.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJMN - UPMatters.com.
