We are working to improve water service on North Academy Boulevard. Multiple isolation valves on large diameter water pipelines along the boulevard and nearby areas are being installed. These valves allow us to safely isolate the water distribution system to improve operational reliability.
The project is broken into three construction phases that will be conducted between 2023-2025. Phase 1 of the project was completed May 19, 2023.
We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding while we work to improve water service in this area. If you have questions about the project, contact us at engage@csu.org or call (719) 668-7765.
Phase 2: April-June, 2024
Daily Update: May 15, 2024
- Today, regular water service was restored to all of our customers.
- Temporary water sources like tankers and hose overs will be removed by the end of the week.
- The current traffic impacts are anticipated to continue until June 7, 2024. During this period, work to install anchors to securely hold the valve, backfilling, compacting, road paving and striping will take place.
- Thanks to effective planning, coordination and preparation, we completed the valve installations a day ahead of schedule. As a result, today’s daily update will serve as the final report for Phase 2 of this project.
Overview
In April, we began the second phase of the Academy Corridor Water Valve Replacement Project. The project aims to enhance water service reliability by installing multiple isolation valves on large-diameter water mains near the North Academy Boulevard and Austin Bluffs Parkway intersection. These valves will mitigate unplanned water outages in the future, building upon lessons learned from a significant water main break that impacted the area in March 2021.
These valves will reduce the number of people affected when the water main is emptied for repairs or maintenance. In addition, they will help provide uninterrupted water service to customers during the final phase of system improvements on Academy Blvd., which are expected in spring 2025.
We know this project can be hard for nearby customers, so we are working around the clock during outage periods to minimize impacts. Your understanding during this critical project is greatly appreciated.
The project schedule is as follows:*
Academy Boulevard (Completed):
- April 14 - April 22 | Preparatory Work
- May 14 at 4 a.m. - May 17 at 4 a.m. | Water Valve Installations
- May 24 - June 7 | Road Restoration
Austin Bluffs Parkway:
- May 4 - May 13 | Preparatory Work
- May 14 at 4 a.m. - May 17 at 4 a.m. | Water Valve Installations
- May 24 - June 7 | Road Restoration
*This schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances
Traffic impacts
We installed two large diameter valves on April 24, 2024, and will install the final two valves in mid-May. To prepare the site and excavate the area, we will be shifting traffic patterns on May 5. As a result, drivers can expect a full closure of eastbound Austin Bluffs Pkwy. between N. Academy Blvd. and Siferd Blvd. until June 7. The N. Academy Blvd. and Austin Bluffs Pkwy. intersection will remain open but turns onto eastbound Austin Bluffs will be restricted.
Please plan ahead if this is your normal route and take alternative routes, if possible. Businesses in the area are remaining open, so please continue to support them throughout the project.
Construction sites may be temporary, but safety is permanent. Let's all do our part to ensure everyone’s well-being by driving safely through the work zone. We recognize that this area experiences heavy traffic, and we appreciate your patience as we strive to complete this improvement project.
Planned water outages
After extensive coordination and out-of-the-box thinking, we reduced the number of customers expected to experience planned water outages during the Academy Valve Project by 90%. The businesses that cannot receive a temporary connection will be supplied with jugs of water, hand-washing stations and portable toilets, so they can remain in operation. Construction crews will work 24 hours a day during this period to minimize customer impacts.
Using community feedback and information gained from the first phase of the project, we found innovative solutions to keep most customers in service. We will temporarily connect businesses to alternative water sources, such as tankers or nearby water mains, and if needed, even make necessary adjustments to individual meter equipment.
While there will be some inconveniences, these temporary connections will support the area businesses during this project. People in the area may notice water lines over fences, roadways and parking lots, and water tanker trucks stationed around the area.
Please note, only business customers will experience planned outages during this project. We ask that you continue to support these businesses during the project. Although traffic in the area will be restricted, businesses will be open.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this critical water system improvement. If customers have any questions regarding the project, they can contact us at engage@csu.org or call (719) 668-7765.
Unplanned water outages
While valves are being installed, there are possibilities of unplanned water outages being necessary to complete the work. If you are a customer nearby the Academy Boulevard and Austin Bluffs Parkway intersection, we ask that you plan accordingly by practicing our tips for preparing for a water outage.
Phase 1: April 24-May 19, 2023 (Completed)
Water valves beneath Academy Boulevard at the Maizeland Road and North Carefree Circle intersections were successfully replaced.
Future Project: Spring 2025
- Intersection of Academy Boulevard and Meadowland Road.
