ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) —
Call it an old faithful public works project.
Travelers along Patton Avenue in West Asheville can’t help but notice the geyser-like activity lately, with water shooting skyward from some of the fire hydrants in the area.
Crews are flushing the new 24-inch water line to prepare it for service, Asheville officials said. They said it’s necessary to remove air pockets and to ready the line for its final connection to the city’s water system.
“It’s difficult to pinpoint an exact time when the flushing/pressure testing process will conclude, based on how the new pipe responds and other variables,” Water Department spokesperson Clay Chandler said.
The contract for the $6.3 million Patton Avenue Waterline Project was awarded to T.P. Howard Plumbing in February 2022.
Work on the project between Florida Avenue and Haywood Road started on Sept. 6, 2022, and includes 7,000 feet of 24-inch waterline along with a 36-inch encasement pipe for a trenchless crossing of Patton Avenue at New Leicester Highway and other miscellaneous water system components, including service connections and other appurtenances, the city’s website said.
The new 24-inch transmission main replaced an undersized and aging existing transmission line, according to the city’s website. The improvements will allow the city to supply more water to the growing western portion of Asheville and Buncombe County. It will provide additional water capacity for firefighting needs and reduce the number of waterline breaks.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve our water infrastructure. Your cooperation is vital in ensuring a smoother transition,” a Facebook post from the city said.
The project is expected to be completed by late summer/early fall, Chandler said.
