Burgeoning development on Moorhead's south side is prompting the city to undertake an estimated $2 million pipeline extension project to improve water service.
City officials want to extend transmission pipeline from 20th Avenue South to 46th Avenue South and 28th Street South.
In addition, construction of a new water tower south of Interstate 94 is planned to provide water to the city's growth areas.
The project aims to improve water pressure in the Village Green area and will ensure there's an adequate water supply for fire protection, Moorhead Councilwoman Diane Wray Williams said.
Fargo-based Ulteig Engineers completed a study on the city's water distribution system and offered recommendations to extend pipeline south of I-94.
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Moorhead will gather bids for the project in March. Construction is anticipated to start in May, said Cliff McLain, Water Division manager for Moorhead Public Service.
The project is scheduled for completion in late fall.
Moorhead Public Service's Water Division capital budget includes $2.4 million for the proposed improvements.
McClain said city officials are evaluating two routes to extend pipeline, both of which follow southeast Main Avenue from 20th Avenue South to 27th Avenue South.
One route crosses the Village Green area through the golf course along 30th Street South while the other crosses through the golf course along 28th Street South, McClain said.
Moorhead Public Service Commission President Ken Norman said the project maximizes the city's utility system to offer better service.
"What (the project) brings is that the whole system is being expanded so we can accommodate future growth and also improve and increase water pressure to various parts of the community," he said.
Moorhead's proposal comes as Fargo city officials plan for construction of what will be the city's largest water main in history.
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Fargo plans to bury a36-inch pipeline from the city's Fifth Street water treatment plant to a 6 million-gallon reservoir at 52nd Avenue South west of 45th Street.
The reservoir will provide water for additional water towers planned in southwest Fargo, city engineers said last week.
Fargo's project is estimated to cost $30 million.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Melinda Rogers at (701) 241-5524
