The first step to connect the town’s public water system to the Devens public water supply was completed Oct. 8. Contractors successfully connected the first section of the new water main that will eventually run the full length of Depot Road to the existing water main that runs along Ayer Road. The project is expected to last about 18 months.
Department of Public Works Director Tim Kilhart told the Press that everything is going according to plan so far. As of Oct. 8, the new Depot Road water main had been installed from Ayer Road to 14 Depot Road. Kilhart said there haven’t been any surprises yet, other than perhaps more road closure time than anticipated.
He said Depot Road was closed for a few days at the Ayer Road intersection while the water main was connected because the work involved digging across the entire intersection, and digging had to go under gas lines. He said he will meet with contractors Oct. 9, and one of the topics of discussion will be the need for future road closures.
Kilhart anticipates that part of Depot Road may need to be closed as digging approaches Under Pin Hill Road because of the guard rails and curves in that section. That area also has a lot of ledge, he added, which might mean heavier machinery would be needed.
The Press will publish information regarding further Depot Road closures as it becomes available.
A work crew begins installation of water pipes at the corner of Ayer and Depot roads as roadwork begins to connect to Devens’ water supply. Road delays and partial closures to through traffic on Depot Road will continue for the next couple of weeks. (Photo by Lisa Aciukewicz)
