High Street Water Main Replacement

The Ipswich Water Department recently upgraded approximately 6,800 feet (or 1.3 miles) of existing 12” diameter cast iron water main on High Street, between the Ipswich Utilities Complex at 272 High Street and the intersection with Kimball Avenue. This existing 12” diameter cast iron water main was originally installed in 1895 and has been serving as a backbone of the water distribution system for over 120 years. 

Over the past two years, several water main breaks have occurred on High Street and caused disruption to the Town’s residents, businesses, and commuters. Replacement of the affected portion of water main was expedited to improve the level of service along this section of the water distribution system. 

The project was substantially completed in the Fall of 2020. 

The replaced 12" cast iron water main was discontinued and left in place for potential reuse to convey Browns Well water to the Water Treatment Plant to remove excess manganese.  The additional treatment of Browns Well water would restore the well's full authorized operating capacity of 0.49 million gallons per day (mgd). The well has been reduced to 0.20 mgd since 2013 to manage manganese levels.

In Fall 2021, the department finalized design of utilizing the old 12" cast iron water main as a sleeve for a new 8" water main that would bring Browns Well water to the Water Treatment Plant for further treatment. By installing the new water main inside of the old 12" water main, excavation and roadway disruptions will be greatly minimized. Both Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and manganese from this source will be treated and restored the well can be restored to full operation.  

Installation of the new 8-inch HPDE water main between Browns Well and the Water Treatment Plant will begin in December of 2021 by Contractor, N. Granese and Sons.

Full curb to curb paving along High Street will be completed in Spring 2022 from 272 High Street to Kimball Avenue

For project details and updates, refer to the information below or contact our office at (978) 356-6635. Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this important project.