Dig it! SUEZ replacing water mains in Toms River, Berkeley Twp

TOMS RIVER - Neighborhoods here, and in Berkeley Township, where aging water mains are targeted for replacement by SUEZ, will see work progressing throughout December. A portion of the Toms River work is alongside a current state road project at Routes 37 and 166.

About two-and-a-half miles of mains, entailing excavation on 16 streets in both communities, began earlier this month in Toms River, company officials said, explaining that the conduits are considered nearing the end of their lifespans.

The projects are within $8,500,000 worth of improvements that SUEZ undertook during 2017.

"These upgrades, which also includes additions or replacements of fire hydrants, are necessasry to sustainably manage the company's water system and enhance water service, making the system more resistant to disruptions during seasonal weather changes," Director of Operations Jim Mastrokalos said in prepared comments.

Mastrokalos added that the company would send to customers advance notice of work-related water disruptions.

Somerville-based CRJ Contracting is conducting the Toms River operation. A portion is just south of Route 37 and east of Route 166, where the New Jersey Department of Transportation is simultaneously involved in a widening project and new traffic signal installation. Crews are scheduled to work Mondays through Fridays, 7 Am until 5 PM.

Replacement of about 7,200 feet of eight-inch ductile iron mains encompasses King Street, Seward Avenue, Thomas Street, and East, West, North and South Gateway.

After that, the work moves up Route 9 to Silverton Road, just north and east of Insectropolis,between Fielders Lane and Old Freehold Road. There, crews are replacing about 850 feet of 12-inch ductile iron main.

J.F. Kiely Construction of Long Branch is contracted for the installation in Berkeley Township, in a neighborhood just east of Route 37, near the Manchester border.

Work is scheduled to take place on Bedivere Court, Brussels Court, Burlington Court, Dupont Court, Hampshire Court, Pala Street, St. Andrews Court, Walesa Court and Wilshire Court. Crews are expected to be on the job Mondays through Fridays, 7 AM until 5 PM, and Saturdays, 9 AM to 4 PM.

About 4,550 feet of eight-inch ductile iron pipe, and 750 feet of six-inch ductile iron pipe, are being replaced, along with approximately eight fireplugs.

SUEZ anticipates having all affected streets repaved by Spring 2018.

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