May 27, 2004

Water Pipeline Work Moves Down Furnace Brook Parkway Discolored Water Possible June 3 - 6

Construction work on MWRA water pipelines by the P. Caliacco Corporation will move further down the Furnace Brook Parkway beginning Tuesday, June 1. Access pits will be constructed between Adams and Copeland Streets, creating temporary traffic disruptions.  Also, a switch-over to a new water connection meter may cause discolored water in the local area beginning Thursday, June 3 through Sunday, June 6.

Map of project area
(click here for larger image)

The Furnace Brook Parkway work is the second phase of a 12-mile long project to upgrade MWRA water pipelines serving Quincy and Milton.  

Work at the ten access pits will vary in duration and not all pits will be open at one time. The size of the pits will also vary depending on the required construction activity, although six of them will be approximately ten feet by twelve feet.  Some pits will be used to clean and cement mortar line the existing pipe, others will be used to install new valves.

The $2.73 million project will improve the pipeline’s condition and carrying capacity and ensure that its service area continues to receive high quality water and adequate pressure for many decades to come. The pipeline cleaning and cement-lining rehabilitation method is less disruptive, faster, and cheaper than a full pipeline replacement. It should extend the life of the pipeline for at least 50 years.

All current traffic plans for the project have been approved by the state Department of Conservation & Recreation, which runs the parkway, and the City of Quincy.  There may be traffic detours or lane closures during construction.  Police details and appropriate signage will be utilized. 

If discolored water does occur, it will result from a small amount of iron in the pipes.  While safe for drinking, cooking and other uses, please note that iron will stain light colored items in your laundry, especially when bleach is used.  Therefore, Quincy residents near this location should check water clarity before washing any white or lighter colored laundry during this period of work. 

Please contact Michele Gillen at MWRA – Public Affairs at (617) 788-1191 if you have questions about this project.