Pierce County’s upcoming sewer repair project to cost up to $8 million | Washington

(The Center Square) – Pierce County will soon begin construction of urgent repairs to a sewer pipe in Lakewood following a recent wastewater infrastructure inspection.

Repairs will begin in early 2025. The project is expected to take at least six months, according to a Press releaseThe cost is estimated at $7 million to $8 million.

A sewer pipe was discovered during a video inspection in the fall Bridgeport Way West in the City of Lakewood that needs immediate repairs.

The reinforced concrete pipe was damaged over time by hydrogen sulfide, a gas contained in wastewater.

In return, Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier signed an emergency declaration on Dec. 23 to allow the county to bring in contractors and make the repairs.

The section of pipe in need of repair was originally scheduled to be repaired or replaced in 2029.

Video inspection of sewer pipe was added in the 2024-2025 budget to improve monitoring of sewer infrastructure. This helps plan for future conservation needs.

In order to divert a large part of the wastewater flow and prevent further damage to the aging pipe, a sewer bypass is first installed before renovation.

Pierce County is coordinating construction and scheduling with the cities of Lakewood and University Place. A start date and any impact on traffic will be announced when available.

In the meantime, travelers can continue to use Bridgeport Way West.