Highlands Sewer Relief Project

Overview June 24, 2021

Project Updates

View current PROJECT UPDATES, which will be posted as work progresses.

What is this project?

The Highlands Sewer Relief Project is upgrading critical sewer facilities—including sewer pipes and pump stations—in part of the Sacramento Area Sewer District’s (SacSewer’s) northwest service area. The work is occurring in North Highlands in a residential area bordered by Watt Avenue, Elkhorn Boulevard, and Roseville Road.

Why is it necessary?

Sewer system upgrades are needed to improve performance and increase capacity in your area. The Highlands Sewer Relief Project will ensure our sewer facilities are meeting customers’ needs, and once complete, the project will provide continued reliable sewer service for many years.

What does the project involve?

The Highlands Sewer Relief Project has two phases.

During Phase 1, new sewer pipes and manholes will be installed, and some existing facilities will also be upgraded. To do this, SacSewer’s contractors will be cutting into the road, then using heavy equipment to dig down and install or replace sewer pipes and manholes (see map for work area). Roads in these work areas will be restored or repaired per Sacramento County standards.
During Phase 2, one pump station will be decommissioned, and another will be upgraded. This construction work will mostly be isolated in and around the two pump stations.

When will the work occur?

Most work takes place Monday through Friday during normal business hours, although limited weekend or night work may be necessary to complete critical tasks. The first phase is expected to be complete in mid-2023, and the second phase is expected to be done in late-2023. Work on the two phases will overlap at times, with crews working in different areas at the same time.

What should I expect during construction?

During the Highlands Sewer Relief Project, we are committed to maintaining uninterrupted sewer service to our customers. SacSewer and its contractors will take all reasonable measures to minimize construction impacts. Potential impacts include traffic slowdowns, parking restrictions, detours, and lane or road closures in work zones. Please be assured we will also work to limit construction noise, dust, odor, and other typical construction impacts. However, some of these impacts are unavoidable, and we greatly appreciate the community’s patience as we work to complete this important project.

During the initial work, crews, trucks, and equipment on neighborhood streets will be active where the new sewer facilities are being installed or improvements are being made (see map). We will coordinate with any property owners if work is occurring directly in front of their properties.

Customers’ mail delivery and garbage, green waste, and recycling pickup will not be interrupted. When necessary, crews will assist in placing bins to make them accessible for weekly pickup.

How will SacSewer keep the community safe?

SacSewer and its contractors will take all necessary precautions to keep the community safe during construction. We ask residents to be careful around work zones and keep children away from work areas and heavy equipment. Signage, traffic controls, barriers, and other safety measures will be used to alert and protect drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.