Improving system’s reliability, redundancy
Backup main to largest, most critical water storage area
Traffic impacts along two stretches of Williamsburg Blvd.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 9, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Arlington will start building a new 24-inch water main this month along Williamsburg Boulevard, and modify pipes to the Minor Hill Reservoir and its four underground storage tanks. The work also includes closing a gap that exists on a previously installed 36-inch water main under the westbound lanes between North Frederick and North Harrison Streets.
The projects will boost the water system’s reliability and redundancy by providing a backup main to our most critical and largest water storage area. The County also will be able to cycle water through the storage tanks more efficiently, which will result in fresher water at the tap.
The total cost of the project is $4.1M. Completion is targeted for summer of 2016 and is dependent upon underground conditions. Funding will come from the County’s Utility Fund.
Traffic impacts
Work is taking place at two separate sites on Williamsburg Boulevard: the first near North Sycamore Street; the second just east of North Harrison Street. Traffic impacts are as follows:
Southbound vehicular traffic on Williamsburg Boulevard at Sycamore Street will be impacted due to narrowing of the existing travel lane within the construction area. These impacts are expected to last 8 to 12 weeks.
Westbound lane of Williamsburg Boulevard will be closed between North Frederick and North Harrison Streets and will be routed around the construction site, using a portion of the eastbound lanes. These impacts will last through summer of 2016.
Drivers are advised to use caution within the work zone. County staff will work to minimize the impact on traffic and water services, though some disruptions should be expected.
Background
Arlington County’s water distribution system has available storage of about 32 million gallons.. The Minor Hill Reservoir contains four underground storage tanks that have a combined capacity of 24 million gallons. The oldest tank was constructed in 1943. These four tanks serve mainly as storage facilities for the County’s Reservoir North and West pressure zones.
County contractor Norair Engineering Corp. will use a tunneling method along the section of Williamsburg Boulevard due to the depth of the 36-inch main and conflicts with existing major stormwater culverts. At the Minor Hill site, a trenchless construction method will be used, which is micro-tunneling underneath the roadway to install pipelines. This method is less invasive because it minimizes surface disruption
Arlington Va., is a world-class residential, business and tourist location that was originally part of the “10 miles square” parcel of land surveyed in 1791 to be the Nation’s Capital. Slightly smaller than 26 square miles, it is the geographically smallest self-governing county in the United States, and one of only a handful with the prized Aaa/AAA/AAA bond rating. Arlington maintains a rich variety of stable neighborhoods and quality schools, and has received numerous awards for Smart Growth and transit-oriented development. Home to some of the most influential organizations in the world — including the Pentagon — Arlington stands out as one of America’s preeminent places to live, visit and do business.
Media Contacts
Jessica Baxter
703-228-3152
