Marina
The City of Emporia has officially launched its ambitious Southeast Transmission Main Waterline Improvements Project, a major undertaking aimed at modernizing and expanding the city’s water distribution system.
Kicking off on Monday, June 9, the project will involve the installation of over 24,000 linear feet of new water mains and 223 new service lines, significantly boosting the reliability and capacity of the existing infrastructure.
What the Project Involves
This large-scale construction project includes installing 4-inch to 20-inch water mains throughout the southeast region of Emporia. These new pipelines will replace outdated lines, reduce the risk of system failures, and improve overall water pressure in the affected neighborhoods.
In addition to the pipework, 223 new service lines and necessary appurtenances will be added, further modernizing the system. These improvements are critical to ensuring long-term water security, especially as the city continues to grow.
Initial Work Areas
Construction will begin at the intersection of 7th Avenue and Garfield Street. From there, the initial phase will expand into surrounding areas including:
- 7th Avenue – from Garfield Street west to Sunnyslope Street and east to Arundel Street
- Garfield Street – from 6th Avenue north to 9th Avenue
These zones will serve as the starting point for the massive waterline installation effort.
Project Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Pipeline Installed | 24,000+ linear feet (4″ to 20″) |
| Service Lines Added | 223 new connections |
| Initial Construction Zone | 7th Ave & Garfield Street |
| Additional Work Zones | Parts of 7th Ave, Sunnyslope, Arundel, and Garfield Streets |
| Expected Completion | Fall 2026 (weather permitting) |
| Construction Start Date | June 9, 2025 |
| Traffic Impacts | Lane closures, flagging, alternate routes |
| Public Notification System | MyAlerts mobile app |
Why This Upgrade Is Essential
This project addresses multiple challenges:
- Aging Infrastructure: Some pipelines in the southeast area have exceeded their useful life, risking frequent breakdowns and inefficient service.
- Population Growth: As Emporia continues to grow, increased water demand necessitates more robust systems.
- Fire Flow Requirements: Upgraded mains will ensure stronger water pressure for firefighting needs, improving public safety.
- Future-Proofing: With larger-diameter mains, the system can handle future development without further major upgrades.
What Drivers and Residents Should Know
Construction activity in the affected zones means road closures, lane reductions, and flagging operations. Residents are strongly encouraged to drive cautiously, obey posted signage, and use alternate routes when available.
The city has launched an alert system to keep citizens informed. Downloading the MyAlerts app will allow residents to receive real-time notifications regarding:
- Traffic changes
- Street closures
- Utility disruptions
Project Duration and Phasing
The Southeast Transmission Main Waterline Improvements Project is expected to take over a year to complete, with a projected end date in Fall 2026, depending on weather conditions and unforeseen challenges.
Phased Timeline:
- June–August 2025: Primary excavation and pipeline installation along 7th Avenue and Garfield Street
- Fall 2025–Spring 2026: Service line installation and testing
- Summer–Fall 2026: Final inspection, pressure testing, system integration, and street restoration
Community Support and Questions
Emporia residents who have questions about the project or need more information can contact the City of Emporia Engineering Department during working hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Support staff are available to assist with inquiries about:
- Property-specific service interruptions
- Construction timelines near residential areas
- General traffic management strategies
Long-Term Benefits
The new system will provide numerous advantages for residents and city operations:
- Stronger, more consistent water pressure
- Fewer service disruptions and emergency repairs
- Improved water flow for emergency services
- Reduced maintenance costs over time
- Support for future residential and commercial development
The Southeast Transmission Main Waterline Improvements Project is a forward-thinking step in ensuring Emporia’s infrastructure is ready for the future.
While there may be short-term inconveniences due to construction, the long-term payoff will be a stronger, more reliable water system for all residents. Emporia is investing in progress, and this project is just the beginning.