Somerset Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project

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WEEKLY UPDATE

Brierwood & West Somerset Sewer Improvements – Two-Week Update* (Oct. 27–Nov. 10, 2025)

Work is moving ahead on the Borough’s sewer improvement project! Over the next two weeks, crews will be busy in several areas of Brierwood and West Somerset:

• Crew 1 will continue installing new sewer mains and replacing manholes along Brierwood area.
• Crew 2 will be working in the West Somerset section, installing 8" sewer pipe and replacing manholes.
• Crew 3 will start adjusting and raising manhole castings in work zones beginning this week.

Expect temporary lane closures and brief access interruptions near active work areas. Crews and flaggers will help maintain safe traffic flow.

Thank you for your patience as we continue improving the Borough’s infrastructure!

*Subject to change due to working conditions

 

 PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Somerset Borough Municipal Authority is conducting a major Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project required by regulations to eliminate it’s hydraulically overloaded condition. This initiative began in 2016 and is scheduled for completion in 2032. The project addresses hydraulic overload conditions caused by excess Infiltration and Inflow.

Key Terms and Definitions

• Hydraulic Overload: Occurs when wastewater and/or extraneous water exceed the physical capacity of the wastewater system.
• Wastewater: Domestic sewage or industrial process water.
• Extraneous Water (I&I): Groundwater or stormwater that enters the wastewater system through leaks or improper connections.

 Causes and Prevention of I&I

 I&I is introduced through cracked or defective pipes, improper stormwater connections, and non-watertight infrastructure. I&I is prohibited from intentionally being directed into the Authority’s wastewater system. To combat this, the Authority plans to replace and repairs pipes, disconnects improper stormwater links, and installs watertight materials.

 Project Phases

1. Phase 1 – Collection System: Foc sewer laterals, mains, and manholes, and includes stormwater improvements. 
2. Phase 2 – Wastewater Treatment Plant & Flow Equalization: Expands treatment and equalization capacity. 
3. Phase 3 – Interceptor Sewers and Pumping Stations: Improves large conveyance lines and pumping facilities.

 Estimated Construction Schedule

Phase	Area	Schedule
1A	Brierwood & West Somerset	Oct 2025 – Dec 2026
1B	Central Business District	Jun 2026 – Dec 2027
1C	East Somerset	Oct 2027 – Dec 2028
1D	North Somerset	Jun 2028 – Dec 2029
2A	WWTP & Equalization	Jan 2028 – Dec 2029
2B	WWTP & Equalization	Jan 2029 – Dec 2030
3A	Interceptors & Pumping Stations	Jan 2030 – Dec 2031
3B	Interceptors & Pumping Stations	Jan 2031 – Dec 2032

 

Property Owner Information

Most construction will occur within public roadways, but some sewer connections reach private properties. Property owners are responsible for maintaining their sewer lateral up to the sewer main. If an easement is required, the Authority will contact property owners with detailed agreements.  After the construction of a viewport through this project, the property owners will be responsible for maintaining their sewer lateral from their building up to the viewport/property clean-out.

Project Updates and Communication

The Authority will share updates via the Borough’s website, social media, and water/sewer bills. Residents are encouraged to check periodically for new information and contact the Borough office with any questions. You can utilize the following link to view live updates on the construction progress.  View Construction Progress