Roadwork surrounding Falls Avenue in Granite Falls

Nearly 60 homes in Granite Falls are getting updates to the water and sewer infrastructure leading up to their properties, and the town says that close to $5 million worth of work will not require local tax dollars.

The phased project runs down Falls Avenue and branches onto Pearl Street, Pine Cone Lane, Pine Street, and Hill Street, and began on Aug. 24. The entire project is expected to finish in the spring of 2027.

The contractor is scheduled to work Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Temporary interruptions are expected as crews complete tie-ins, but residents shouldn’t be without water or sewer for more than a couple of hours during these instances. The town will provide at least 72 hours notice through door hangers, social media, and other town communications when an interruption is scheduled.

In total, 58 homes are affected by the project, where the current infrastructure is estimated to be approximately 60-70 years old, according to Public Utilities Director Eric Williams.

“There have been a number of water main breaks along the lines being replaced, resulting in water loss in the area as well as multiple areas of roadway requiring repairs,” Williams said. “The phased replacement program is intended to address the aging infrastructure and help reduce these types of issues in the future.”

Granite Falls received $4.999 million in Community Development Block Grant funding for the infrastructure updates, and $3.99 million will be directed toward the water, sewer, and road improvements. The remaining $1.009 million will cover engineering and grant administration.

Following the infrastructure improvements, “the only visible improvement residents will see is a newly paved road that will be completed at the tail end of the project. Under the surface, residents will now have brand new water and sewer lines connecting to their residences which will help mitigate potential water main breaks or sewer overflows that are often caused by aging infrastructure,” said Williams.

Williams said the work will not change property assessments or water and sewer rates.

NOTES FROM THE TOWN

Although equipment will be moved off the roadway to maintain access, some equipment may remain in the area overnight.

The contractor will provide notices to homeowners as work gets closer to individual homes. Residents are welcome to speak with construction workers if they have questions while crews are working in the area. Questions about the project, utility interruptions, or scheduling can be directed to the Town of Granite Falls.

Construction could affect school bus and emergency services access. Students may need to walk to other designated pickup locations. Emergency responders will coordinate with the town regarding construction schedules and locations.

Trash collection may occur earlier than normal, and residents are encouraged to put out their trash the night before scheduled Monday collection.

The town said that any yards or other areas disturbed by the project will be restored following construction, which may include grass seed and straw.