In mid-April, Dept. of Water Management (DWM) crews will begin the work to install 7,398 feet of new 8-inch water main in Armitage from Paulina to Western. The old water main dates back to 1893, and needs to be replaced to create a more reliable and efficient system. This work is expected to be completed by November 2021, with restoration, including street resurfacing and repair of damaged parkways and sidewalks, to follow. Dates may change depending on weather and other factors.
When they are working in the street, they may close it to traffic for safety reasons, but you will always be able to reach your home or business. Outside of working hours, a travel lane will be left open for local traffic only. The Armitage bus may be rerouted at times during this project; please make sure to watch for signs posted at bus stops.
The work area will be posted for "No Parking" as needed during work hours (generally 7 am - 4 pm). Parking is allowed outside of those hours, but cars will need to be moved by the start of the next workday. They will try to preserve as much parking as possible.
Construction always involves inconveniences and noise. They will do everything possible to maintain your quality of life throughout this project, and conduct themselves as good and thoughtful neighbors in the course of their presence on your street.
DWM does everything possible to preserve homeowner improvements within the public right of way when doing infrastructure work, but does not assume responsibility for damage to privately installed parkway improvements, including sprinkling systems, fences, flower beds, and shrubbery. Any homeowner added improvements including fencing, landscaping, etc. should be removed by the individual homeowner prior to the water main installation.
When they switch over the services from the old main to the new water main, they will interrupt water service. They will give you 24-hour notice when this is to happen. However, in the event of an emergency shutdown during construction, they may not be able to give you prior warning.
Should you have any questions or concerns, you can either ask the construction foreman during the project, or call any of the following numbers:
24-Hour Service and Information Line: 311
Anthony Falada, General Superintendent of Water: 312-617-2218
32nd Ward Office: 773-248-1330
If you would like to receive regular email updates about the progress of these projects, please go to BuildingANewChicago.org to register for project notifications. Simply enter your name, email address, and the project identification number (2001026). By signing up for the project notifications, you will be informed as the project enters each new construction phase - from mobilization of equipment onto the site, to the installation of new pipes, to the final restoration of the street.