2026 Water Main Pipe Lining Project

  • Project typeWater Main
  • Project value$2,792,847.00
  • Contractor nameFer-Pal Construction USA, LLC
A before and after photo showing the impact of CIPP

This project will rehabilitate approximately 7,840 feet (about 1.5 miles) of existing water main using cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining along the following streets:

  • King Highway near the Kalamazoo River
  • Cameron Street
  • Kingston Avenue
  • Dorchester Avenue

The project is part of the City's ongoing efforts to improve the reliability of the water system and reduce water main breaks. Rather than replacing the existing pipe through extensive excavation, this project will strengthen the existing water main using a trenchless rehabilitation method.

What is CIPP?

Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining is a trenchless technology that installs a new structural liner inside an existing water main. After the existing pipe is cleaned, a flexible liner is inserted into the water main and cured in place, creating a new, smooth, corrosion-resistant interior that extends the life of the existing pipe.

Because the work is completed inside the existing water main, CIPP requires far less excavation than traditional water main replacement. This helps reduce impacts to neighborhoods while improving the long-term reliability of the City's water infrastructure.

What to Expect During Construction

To complete the work, sections of the existing water main will be temporarily taken out of service. During this time, a temporary above-ground bypass water system will provide continuous water service to homes and businesses. The temporary system will include fire protection connections and will undergo the same water quality testing as the permanent water main before being placed into service.

Residents can also expect:

  • Temporary above-ground water pipes in some areas during construction.
  • Advance notice before work begins in their neighborhood.
  • Temporary traffic impacts while crews are working.
  • Access to homes, businesses, and driveways maintained throughout construction whenever possible.
  • Door hangers and other notifications before service inspections or any work affecting individual properties.

As part of the project, the City will also verify the material of water service lines serving properties in the project area.

This approach has been successfully used on previous water main rehabilitation projects in Kalamazoo, helping extend the life of critical infrastructure while minimizing disruption to residents.

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