The City of Oceanside will begin construction on the second phase of its downtown water and sewer pipeline replacements project beginning the week of March 9. This project is the second of a five-phase program to replace aging water and sewer mains throughout the downtown Oceanside area.

Phase I located between Neptune and Pier View Way included the replacement of 2.5 miles of water and over 1.5 miles of sewer infrastructure.

Construction on Phase II will begin in the alley located south of Meyer Street and north of Pacific Street.

The Phase II Project includes the replacement of over three miles of sewer pipelines and over 2.5 miles of water infrastructure. It also expands the City of Oceanside’s recycled water system in downtown with nearly a mile of new pipe.

Modernizing Water and Sewer Utilities in Oceanside

“The City of Oceanside is excited to begin construction on the Downtown Water and Sewer Replacement – Phase 2 project,” said Neil Irani, Senior Civil Engineer for the City of Oceanside. “This project is the second phase of our program to replace aging and undersized water and sewer utilities throughout the downtown Oceanside area.

“Over the next couple of years, approximately three miles of sewer and 2.5 miles of water will be replaced with modernized materials. The project will also expand the recycled water system in the downtown area, continuing Oceanside’s commitment to sustainable water sources. This investment in our utility infrastructure is critical to maintain safe and reliable water and sewer service for our customers,” explained Irani.

Aging Pipeline Replacements Prevent System Failures

Many of the water and sewer mains scheduled for replacement in this project are at an advanced age. Some of the sewer mains are approaching 100 years old, well past their expected useful life.

The old pipelines were made of cast iron. Replacement pipelines are made of polyvinyl chloride pipes. The city will also replace hydrants, water meters, and manhole covers.

This project will continue the City of Oceanside’s commitment to updating the water and sewer systems to current standards while ensuring sufficient capacity to meet the area’s growing needs. The City will also add additional recycled water customers as part of the system expansion, including public, commercial, and mixed-use residential properties.

Recycled water is non-potable water typically used for irrigation. Developing recycled water sources is an important part of Oceanside’s commitment to provide customers with sustainable and alternative water sources.

Minimizing Disruptions To Oceanside Community

The Phase II construction is expected to last approximately two years. Traffic throughout construction areas will generally be maintained at all times. Road closures or detours with impacts to the public will be allowed as night work only.

Daytime work is restricted from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with additional restrictions in the busiest areas. No work will be allowed west of Myers Street during the busy summer season.

Work will also be restricted during popular annual events and weekly markets in the downtown area

Nearby properties will receive advanced notice through door hangers. Water and sewer service will be maintained, with short, planned interruptions also communicated in advance through door hangers. There will also be regular updates in the City newsletter, The Oceanside Tide, as the project progresses.

The project cost is approximately $30 million and is funded through previously budgeted capital improvement program funds and state and federal grants.

Please visit the Oceanside Water Utilities webpage for updates on the project. Residents and business owners with questions about the project or traffic impacts can call representatives (760) 435-5930 or email " class="external" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> for project-related questions.