Water main work to start in May

RITZVILLE — The City Council was updated on water-distribution upgrades during its Tuesday, March 7 meeting.

Ben Varela of Varela Engineering and Management discussed bidding for a water distribution system.

He explained the project will include about 5,000 feet of new water mains and a dozen valve replacements throughout the city.

It will continue a project begun more than a decade ago, he said, estimating the total cost for the extended distribution system at $2-$2.5 million.

He said he expects construction to start in late May and to continue through the end of September.

According to Varela, the project will extend the water main along West First Avenue, loop past the abandoned Texas John’s restaurant, and continue along Weber Road.

Councilman Dennis Chamberlain noted this project has been “on the books” for a long time.

Public Works Director Breazeale added the new system will provide infrastructure for future development.