Phase 3 of the water main replacement project in Moose Jaw is underway in the Notorious City and Mayor Fraser Tolmie says he's pleased with the results so far.

"It's exciting, it really is because we're seeing things getting done. Council's got, I believe, a very good plan moving forward and so does the City administration and again I'm excited for the next couple years." 

Phase 3 is scheduled across eight different areas of the city this year, replacing or repairing a total of 2.7 km of castiron pipes. Most recently, a 271m section along Athabasca St. W from Ninth Ave NW to 10th Ave NW has been completed. 

Residents along areas of repair may opt to have their water connection lines replaced at the same time as the public lines, but not all residents have opted-in at this time, due to cost or other concerns. Tolmie stated Friday that although declining the replacement may cause future disruption to water services, the City respects all residents' decision.

"We don't want to embarrass anybody or force them into that situation. We have to respect their decision and their decision cycle." 

In one area of Phase 3, a pilot project is underway to repair, rather than replace the existing pipes. Located in the alley of Saskatchewan St. by 9th Ave. NW, a new pipelining technique is being used. The location of the water main in the alley means access to it is restricted, so the City is testing out PVC plastic lining rather than a full water main replacement. If that section goes well, it may be used again during the next phase of the project near Main Street.

"We really want this program to be maximized. We've had very early stages where we've learned from the first couple years and this is going to be another phase of learning and implementing new ideas, new ways, and overcoming some of the challenges." 

For more information including updates for this ongoing project, please visit the City of Moose Jaw's website.