Months-Long Construction To Replace Water Main In Cherry Hill Underway

CHERRY HILL, NJ — New Jersey American Water recently began months-long construction to replace an aging water main along Kresson Road, the utility company announced Monday.

The work impacts Kresson Road between Springdale and Cropwell roads — a portion of the roadway that includes Cherry Hill High School East.

Crews are replacing an older cement water main with a new 16-inch ductile iron main in the mile-long stretch of the roadway.

Construction is expected to last until June, according to New Jersey American Water. Crews will typically work weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. while possibly adding evening and weekend work to stay on schedule.

"Access to homes and businesses will be maintained throughout construction, and crews will work directly with customers to accommodate driveway access as needed," New Jersey American Water said. "In areas where excavation is required, temporary surface restoration will be provided. Permanent restoration will be completed, weather permitting, approximately 90 days later to allow time for the soil to properly settle."

New Jersey American Water, the state's largest water utility, is spending about $2.5 million on the project.

The investor-owned company operates water service in hundreds of New Jersey cities and towns.

New Jersey American Water is seeking to raise rates by about $10 per month to support over $1.4 billion in water and wastewater projects. That would raise the average residential water bill to $93.89 per month. Read more: NJ American Water Wants To Hike Rates For Garden State Customers

The rate hikes must be approved by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.

New Jersey American Water says replacing the water main in Cherry Hill will reduce the likelihood of water-service disruptions while improving water flow and fire protection.

Traffic control will be coordinated with local authorities, according to the water utility. The roadway will be open for emergency vehicles and local access at all times.

Meanwhile, the county began reconstructing Kresson Road a few months ago. Read more: Longterm Roadwork On Busy Cherry Hill Street Gets Underway