NEWARK CITY WATER DISTRIBUTION MAIN REHABILITATION

Newark City recently completed a drinking water project that was funded with approximately $16.8 million in loans from the NJ Water Bank, a joint low-rate funding program of the DEP and the NJIB. Total savings for this project are estimated to be $6.7 million, over the 30-year term of the loan or 40% of the total project cost. In addition, this project created an estimated 201 direct construction jobs.  

The project included the rehabilitation of over 11.5 linear miles of cast iron water distribution mains in the City. Pipes were internally cleaned either with pressurized water or drag lined, using an assembly of scrapers and tight-fitting squeegees through the lines with a power winch. Afterwards, a 1/8-inch thick cement-mortar lining was applied to the pipe interior. A portion of the mains were rehabilitated with the installation of a Cured-In-Place Pipe liner. Clearing the pipes eases the flow of water which reduces the pressure inside the pipes, greatly extending their useful life. The project also included replacement of approximately 175-line valves and 130 fire hydrants. 

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka commended the project adding that "Our water utility is dedicated to serving a continuous supply of safe, high quality water for the City of Newark. This project is an example of our efforts to protect our assets and maintain the integrity and security of our infrastructure. This investment will benefit our ratepayers through the water they drink and the money they will save over time."  

This project was designed by Mott MacDonald LLC and constructed by Mainlining America, LLC.  

Pictures courtesy of the City of Newark.