180-day construction project coming to Lacey’s Brentwood neighborhood

Residents of Lacey’s Brentwood neighborhood will have to show a little patience in the coming months because the city is about to embark on a major upgrade to water service in the area.

To kick things off, Lacey City Council unanimously approved a $2.8 million contract Thursday night to improve stormwater lines, waterlines and some sewer lines in the area of the city between College Street Southeast and Ruddell Road Southeast, south of 22nd Avenue Southeast.

The work, which is expected to begin in February, is set to last 180 working days. The winning bidder for the project was Federal Way-based Pacific Civil & Infrastructure.

Given the length of the project, some council members had questions for Lacey Public Works Director Scott Egger. Egger has said the work is needed because waterlines have failed in the area before.

Councilman Jeff Gadman said the Brentwood neighborhood is home to many families and children. He wanted to know what will happen to those trying to get to school during construction.

Egger said the city has mailed information to residents affected by the project. The mailer describes the project and provides city contact information. Although there will be delays, roads will be kept open as much as possible.

“Pedestrians will be given priority,” Egger said.

Deputy Mayor Cynthia Pratt asked whether residents will be able to safely get around construction equipment.

Contractors and inspectors will be on site and those concerns will be addressed on a case-by-case basis, Egger said.

The contractor was one of 11 companies that bid on the water improvements job. A Thurston County contractor did not bid on the project, according to city data.

This story was originally published January 15, 2016 at 1:04 AM with the headline "180-day construction project coming to Lacey’s Brentwood neighborhood."