Newman Lake oxygenation project ahead of schedule after successful underwater demo

Spokane County public-works staff told commissioners on Feb. 4 that the ARP-funded Newman Lake Water Quality Improvement Project is proceeding ahead of schedule after on-site demolition and recovery work completed without major issues.

Derek, the county project manager, reported that contractors completed the in-lake demolition in mid-November and lifted the old diffuser and support pilings from the lake. "This thing had been underwater for 30 years... it was neat to see it rise up and come out of the underwater in one piece," he said.

Staff said the new oxygen supply line to the shoreline and onshore work — including two air compressors, oxygen separation equipment and associated piping and electrical — are installed or under installation. The contractor expects to mobilize and install the new diffuser assembly in early April, with substantial completion estimated for May 2, roughly a month ahead of the spec baseline.

County staff credited a recent $300,000 supplemental award for avoiding an immediate need to raise assessments or seek a loan and noted the project team will schedule a ribbon-cutting or system-commissioning event once operations begin.

Ending: Commissioners thanked staff for the update and for mitigating risks during underwater demolition; staff said they would provide further updates as the diffuser installation nears.