Veolia Lead Water Line Replacement To Impact Traffic In Westwood

WESTWOOD, NJ — Drivers traveling through parts of Westwood may encounter construction activity this week as Veolia continues utility work in the borough.

Veolia crews will conduct lead service line replacement work at various locations on Wheeler Avenue, Newark Avenue and Summit Avenue, according to the Westwood Police Department.

Residents and motorists should expect equipment in the roadway and possible temporary traffic delays or parking restrictions while the work is underway.

Traffic control officers will be on scene and will work to accommodate residents who need to access their homes in affected areas, police said.

Motorists are asked to use caution in active work zones and follow directions from officers, construction personnel and posted signs.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation while this important replacement work is ongoing,” the police department said.

Veolia says a service line is the pipe connecting a water main in the street to an individual home or business, with the utility owning the portion from the main to the curb and the property owner responsible for the section from the curb to the building.

While lead is not present in water leaving the treatment plant or in water mains, the company said the material was once commonly used for smaller service lines and indoor plumbing because it was strong and malleable.

“We’re committed to getting all the lead out of the system,” Veolia said, adding, “We’re not slowing down until we get these out of the system.”

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