PROJECT OF THE WEEK: CITY OF NEWARK QUEEN DITCH RESTORATION PROJECT

The City of Newark recently completed green infrastructure improvements that are being funded with approximately $6 million in loans from the NJ Water Bank, a joint low-interest funding program of the DEP and the NJ I-Bank. This project qualified for principal forgiveness totaling $2,646,039 as it addressed CSO overflows in Newark and improved resilience for future storms. Including interest cost savings, total savings for this project are estimated to be $5,737,269 over the 20-year term of the loan or 95% of the total project cost. In addition, this project created an estimated 72 direct construction jobs.

Drivers in the City of Newark have become accustomed to flooding in certain areas during rain events causing recurring property damage and, in some instances, leaving motorists stranded. In an effort to reduce the frequency and magnitude of local street flooding, the City upgraded and improved drainage facilities in the the Queen Ditch section of the City. The project included the installation of a precast concrete box culvert and the installation of a netting facility that prevents street debris and litter from entering the City's waterways. The project also included dredging the Queen Ditch to its original depth and restoring an important wetland habitat in the center of a highly developed industrial area. An in-line floatables collection system was also constructed as well as a headwall with a tide gate, and a stone scour pad.

According to Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, "This project eliminates the blockage of the main outlet sewer from the Queen District diversion chamber. In addition, it restricts the overflow of combined sewage during wet weather periods that result in frequent surface flooding. This investment is an example of our collaboration with the State of New Jersey to solve flooding issues, protect public health, and benefit our taxpayers through the money they will save over time."

This project was designed by CDM Smith and constructed by Rencor Construction Service, Ltd.

Pictures courtesy of the City of Newark