MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!

This month (November) the final phase of North of the River Municipal Water District's Highland Park Water System Improvements Project was completed.

In February this year, Special Services Contractors, Inc. began installing 5.3 miles of new 8” PVC water main in the streets of Highland Park along with 125 new gate valves, which will improve district operations and maintenance. About 100 old and leaking galvanized service lines were replaced with new polyethylene tubing, and 587 homes now receive water service from new water mains in the street at the front of their house. All of those homes are now completely disconnected from the old leaking water mains located within the easements and alleys at the rear of most of those properties. The 80 year old cast iron distribution system is now completely deactivated. The outdated single head fire hydrants in the area have been replaced with 75 modern 3-outlet hydrants and along with other system upgrades, will improve the District's service to our customers for many years to come.

This culminates a three year saga beginning with a series of grant applications to the State of California requesting assistance with the upgrade of the District's aging infrastructure. In February 2004 the District was successful in obtaining a grant of $3.26 million from the State, and the contract for the work was awarded to Special Services Contractors, Inc. of Paso Robles, Ca. Among many customers who contacted the District these past few months was Mrs. Mary Simmons, the property owner at 132 Arvin St, who commented how “friendly and courteous” the young men in the orange shirts were while working in her neighborhood.

The neighborhoods involved in the project, were North of China Grade Loop Rd. encompassed by North Chester Ave and Manor Street , and South of China Grade Loop Road encompassed by North Chester Alley, Norris Road , and McCray Street . The District and Special Services Contractors would like to thank the residents of these neighborhoods for their cooperation and understanding during the nine month construction period. Inconvenience to residents was minimized by keeping them notified when their water might be temporarily disrupted or access to their street or driveway might be affected. Given the scope and diverse locations of work underway each day this may not always have been possible. But many customers have expressed their appreciation for their new service. In a letter to the District, Mr. Jerry Keene of 2805 Charleston Dr commented that “the work was done in a very professional manner”.

Residents and homeowners who have special concerns or questions about the project may contact the North of the River Municipal Water District office, 393-5411.

 

 

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