PCWA Begins Phase 1: Providing Long-Term Water Reliability
Rocklin, Calif. – Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) is set to begin Phase 1 of the Rocklin Pipeline Replacement Project, an important infrastructure upgrade that will enhance long-term water reliability for residents in the City of Rocklin. This phase will focus on replacing an aging water main along Midas Avenue, between 2nd Street and Argonaut Road.
The existing steel pipes, installed in 1963 and coated with cement mortar, have approached the end of their operational lifespan. A series of leaks and failures on the mainline pipes in recent years underscores the importance of this project.
"Replacing these aging pipelines is essential to preventing future disruptions and safeguarding the delivery of drinking water to Rocklin residents," said Associate Engineer Steve Bowman, the Project Manager. "This investment in infrastructure will help reduce costly repairs and improve overall water reliability into the future."
Project Scope and Timeline
Phase 1, scheduled to begin on October 21, focuses on replacing a significant portion of the mainline pipes along Midas Avenue, between 2nd Street and Argonaut Road. The project includes trenching to install a new 12" mainline pipe, service laterals, and meter boxes. After pressurizing the mainline and connecting individual residences, crews will backfill the trench and apply temporary pavement. Final paving and striping will be completed once the entire road section is ready. The work will progress in sections along the route to minimize disruption. Construction is expected to conclude by Summer 2025.
Traffic and Service Impacts
Motorists traveling through the construction zone should expect delays during construction hours. Two-way, controlled traffic will be maintained, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., but construction activities on-site may last from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Traffic flow is expected to be slower than usual, so please plan accordingly. Flaggers will be on-site to assist with pedestrian access. Temporary no-parking signs will be placed ahead of each construction section, as the work zone will shift along the route. Water service will remain largely unaffected, with only brief interruptions anticipated as crews tie in the new pipes. Residents will receive 72-hour notice of any planned shutoffs.
"We understand that construction can be an inconvenience, and we truly appreciate the community's patience as we work to improve Rocklin's water infrastructure," said Bowman. "These temporary delays will result in long-term benefits, ensuring reliable water service for years to come."
Background
Originally scheduled to start in August 2023, Phase 1 was delayed due to supply chain issues involving critical components, such as brass fittings and valves. In light of significant disruptions caused by the severe storms of 2023, PCWA reconfigured the project timeline to lessen inconveniences for residents. As a result, Phase 2, which focused on the pipeline section between Clover Valley and Argonaut Road, was initiated first and successfully completed in July 2024.
With an estimated cost of $3.1 million for Phase 1, the overall multi-phase project is expected to total $24 million when finished. This investment, funded by PCWA ratepayers, will provide the Rocklin community with a renewed, reliable water infrastructure system that will last for decades.
More Information:
For more details and updates, visit pcwa.net/RocklinMain or contact Project Manager Steve Bowman at (530) 823-4881 or [email protected].