Construction on the Essex Street Utility and Roadway Improvement Project will commence July 8, covering Essex Street between Pearl Street and Highland Street, as well as Highland Street from Marginal Street to Maverick Street.
Many of the utility lines running beneath Essex Street date back to 1906 or earlier.
As utility infrastructure ages, material deterioration becomes inevitable, potentially leading to utility breaks, leaks and other complications. Above-ground consequences of these failures include sinkholes, settling and cracking, which compromise road conditions and accelerate vehicle wear.
The sewer infrastructure on Essex Street consists of aging brick mains with multiple broken sections. These compromised sections permit groundwater infiltration into the sewer system and allow sewage to permeate the soil.
According to City officials, groundwater should remain part of the natural ecosystem rather than being diverted into sewer systems. A large 36-inch water pipe owned by the MWRA sits directly above the sewer pipe, complicating access and maintenance efforts. The Essex Street project will replace sewer mains where feasible, while utilizing structural liners to reinforce existing pipes in areas that are difficult to access.
The scope of work includes sewer and service replacements, water main abandonment with service transfers, new storm drain installation, new concrete driveway aprons, new granite curbing, fresh concrete sidewalks, complete repaving, new line stripping and pedestrian crossings.
The project is expected to deliver several benefits:
•improved water pressure to fire hydrants;
•lead-free water service lines;
•new street trees providing summer cooling and reducing utility break risks.
Once completed, the City indicated that the improvements will enhance the appearance of Essex Street and portions of Highland Street while establishing durable utility infrastructure.