Problems with water lines throughout the country aren’t uncommon. Bridgeport, it’s safe to say, isn’t an exception.

 

However, the city is in the process of multiple projects to reduce those problems. The latest is taking place in the Twin Oaks section of the city.

 

According to Bridgeport City Engineer Beth Fox a project is currently under way along the Poplar Street, Elm Drive and Twin Oaks Drive area. The work is part of a project in the range of $50,000.

 

“It’s a pretty hefty project and it’s being handled in house by our city crew,” said Fox. “This area is one of the areas where we’ve had a lot of water line issues in the city and it’s been high on the priority list. It’s now being addressed.”

 

The project will see the removal of old ACP (asbestos concrete pipe) being replaced. The old six-inch ACP pipes are being replaced with six-inch C900 plastic pipe.

 

Fox said already that 700 feet of the new line has been installed along Poplar Street. From that point, 100 feet of new line will be put in place along Elm and the plans are to go up Twin Oaks Drive and replace about 500 feet of line in that area.

 

“Those lines have had a long life in the city and it’s time for them to go. We’re finding several areas that have the ACP in the ground and they’re going to need replaced,” said Fox.

 

The $50,000 or so of money for the project is funded through the Bridgeport Utility Board’s water fund. The cost will cover labor, material, equipment, road repair and cleanup.

 

Fox said the plan is not to have any lane closures or traffic issues during work, but a few could happen for very brief periods. She added there is also a possibility of minor episodes of water service interruption during the work.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows work done at the intersection of Poplar and Elm, while bottom photo is a warning sign for residents as outside traffic is being prohibited.