March 2, 2004

Water Pipeline Work Set to Begin Along Furnace Brook Parkway

Location of access pits for MWRA pipeine rehabilitation (larger image)

As part of an ongoing program to rehabilitate water pipelines serving Quincy and Milton, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority will begin work under the Furnace Brook Parkway this month. Between Adams and Copeland Streets, MWRA’s contractor, P. Caliacco Corporation, will work underground from 10 access pit locations until November.

The Furnace Brook Parkway work is the second phase of the multi-phased Southern Spine Water Supply Mains Project. This project is rehabilitating or replacing 12 miles of old and leaky pipes and associated valves in this area of the MWRA water system. Phase one is already underway in the Blue Hills Reservation. The Parkway contract covers a 4,500-foot stretch of 48-inch water pipeline that has experienced leaks over the last several years requiring short-term, emergency repairs.

Work at the ten access pits will vary in duration and not all pits will be open at one time. The size of the pits will also vary depending on the required construction activity, although six of them will be approximately ten feet by twelve feet. Some pits will be used to clean and cement mortar line the existing pipe, others will be used to install new valves. In some cases, small lengths of old pipe that are beyond repair will be replaced.

The $2.73 million project will improve the pipeline’s condition and carrying capacity and ensure that its service area continues to receive high quality water and adequate pressure for many decades to come. The pipeline cleaning and cement-lining rehabilitation method is less disruptive, faster, and cheaper than a full pipeline replacement. It should extend the life of the pipeline for at least 50 years.

Work on a first phase of pipeline rehabilitation is also underway along the Parkway further south between Willard Street and Bunker Hill Lane.

All traffic plans for the project have been approved by the state Department of Conservation & Recreation, which runs the parkway, and the City of Quincy. There may be traffic detours or lane closures during construction. Police details and appropriate signage will be utilized.
Work at Adams Street will take approximately 6-8 weeks and must occur before any other work begins. There should not be a need to detour traffic, but lane closures may be necessary at this location.

Please contact Michele Gillen at MWRA, Public Affairs, at (617) 788-1191 if you have questions about the project.