Water shutdowns planned

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

The replacement of about 280 metres of existing water main will bring minor inconvenience in the form of water shutdowns to some Naramata residents.

"Our commitment is to provide a minimum of 48 hours notice to residents affected by the shutdown," said RDOS Engineer Liisa Bloomfield. "The properties most affected are on Ponderosa Drive, Upper Debeck Road, Debeck Road and Arawana Road."

The work is required to replace the water main originally installed in 1958. The main is a critical link in the Naramata water system, as it is the only water main that feeds the Juniper Reservoir from a connection at Arawana Road.

"Water is pumped from the Juniper Reservoir to the upper areas of Stonebrook Reservoir and Arawana Reservoir," said Bloomfield. "The three reservoirs collectively provide water for a significant portion of the water system."

Using trenchless technology and installing an overland bypass waterline will minimize water interruption.

"We are anticipating two shutdowns, when the bypass line is tied into the existing main and again when the new water main is commissioned," said Bloomfield.

The regional district expects to complete the project within three weeks. Work is scheduled to begin March 31.