Kentucky American Water is completing the final phase of an extensive water main replacement project along the North Limestone Street area in downtown Lexington using unique "trenchless" technology that is billed as less disruptive and more cost-effective.
The $230,000 project involves replacing 1,200 feet of 10-inch-diameter and 12-inch-diameter cast iron pipe. Typically, water main replacements involve significant excavation – digging through pavement and concrete. Because of the excavation, such projects can be disruptive for traffic and extend the time needed for restoration after the pipe replacement is complete.
Trenchless technology, however, involves digging access pits, cleaning the existing pipe, and slip lining an existing pipe with a new pipe made of cured-in-place pipe. The technology has been used in recent years for sewer line replacement, but is newer to the drinking water industry.
The project is currently underway, with plans for completion in mid- to late July.
For more information, check online at www.kentuckyamwater.com.