A project to replace a sewer main along Brookdale Road in Parkland has been postponed until the middle of this year. Crews had planned to shift work to the eastern end of the project in December, but unfavorable conditions and associated costs have made postponement the best alternative, according to Pierce County Public Works and Utilities officials.

Pavement affected by initial work at the intersection of A Street and 133rd Street East was restored in mid-December. NW Cascade, the project contractor, will remove its equipment from the site. Pierce County crews will continue to monitor groundwater throughout the winter, and the project will resume operations when conditions are more favorable.

This project consists of replacing 5,000 feet of sewer pipe with a 72-inch diameter interceptor pipe. The existing 30-inch diameter sewer pipe is nearing its capacity of seven-million gallons per day, is heavily corroded, and is located in an area affected by high groundwater levels, according to Pierce County officials. Additionally, groundwater seeps into the sewer pipe, reducing its capacity to carry wastewater. The project also includes a new pump station at the northwest corner of Golden Given Road East and Brookdale Road.

When work resumes, traffic will periodically be detoured. Signs will be posted when a detour is required and flaggers will assist motorists when necessary. There will be local access during the detours. The county will work with property owners to minimize impacts.

The project, managed by Pierce County Public Works and Utilities, is now expected to be completed in 2016.

More information is available online at co.pierce.wa.us/brookdaleinterceptor.