MassDOT mandates water main upgrades for Route 1 construction starting fiscal 28

The Capital Outlay Committee of Norwood has proposed a significant water infrastructure project aimed at improving the town's water main system. During a recent meeting, committee members discussed a plan to allocate $500,000 for the design and construction of water main improvements at the Route 1 and University Avenue intersection. This project is crucial as it aligns with upcoming widening work scheduled by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) in fiscal year 2028.

The existing 24-inch water main, which is over 75 years old and made of cast iron, requires urgent upgrades to a more durable ductile iron pipe. This upgrade is essential to maintain reliable water supplies and to avoid a potential five-year moratorium on infrastructure improvements that MassDOT would impose if the upgrades are not completed before their scheduled work begins.

The committee recommended funding this project through the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) grant loan, which is typically utilized for water main cleaning and lining. However, the committee plans to pause these auxiliary cleaning and lining efforts for one year to prioritize the necessary upgrades at the intersection.

In addition to the Route 1 project, the committee reviewed the ongoing ten-year water improvement program, which has a budget of $4.5 million annually. This program is currently in its sixth year, with plans to pause the water improvement efforts for two years—fiscal years 2028 and 2029—due to anticipated borrowing for a new water tank. The committee aims to resume the program in fiscal year 2030.

These discussions highlight the town's commitment to maintaining and improving its water infrastructure, ensuring that residents continue to receive safe and reliable water service. The proposed upgrades not only address immediate needs but also set the stage for future improvements, reflecting a proactive approach to community water management.