Dairy Branch Tributary Wastewater Improvement Project, Phase 3
- Project typeWastewater
- Project budget$2.5–4.5 million (construction)
- Project phaseCurrent Status: Construction
Project overview
This project will install and replace sanitary sewer infrastructure to improve service reliability for residents and businesses in the corridor. The work includes sewer installation and replacement, roadway excavation, intersection crossing work, phased traffic control, and roadway restoration upon completion of construction.
Construction will move through the corridor in multiple phases. Because work happens in stages, traffic patterns and active work zones will shift over time. We will share updates here and notify nearby residents, businesses, and stakeholders in advance whenever possible.
Why This Project Is Needed
Sanitary sewer pipes carry wastewater safely away from homes and businesses every day. Over time, this infrastructure needs to be upgraded and replaced to keep service dependable and to protect public health and the environment.
The Dairy Branch Phase 3 project installs and replaces sewer infrastructure along the Park Road and McDonald Avenue corridor. Completing this work now strengthens the reliability of the wastewater pipe system, reduces the risk of future service issues, and supports long-term water and wastewater service quality for the Sedgefield community.
This project is part of Charlotte Water's ongoing investment in the pipes and systems that keep the Charlotte region's water and wastewater services running.
What to Expect During Construction
Construction will take place along the corridor and on or near nearby roadways and properties. You may notice the following while crews are working in your area:
- Temporary lane closures and traffic shifts
- Intersection impacts and temporary detours
- Construction noise and vibration
- Equipment and crew activity
- Temporary driveway and access adjustments
- Reduced roadway capacity during active work
- Temporary changes to pedestrian routes
Crews on site work on behalf of Charlotte Water and will wear clothing that identifies them and their company. Construction sequencing and traffic control may change as work moves through the corridor. When a significant traffic change is planned, we will provide advance notice whenever possible — though some field conditions may require shorter notice.
Construction Schedule
The project will move through the phases below. Dates are estimates and may shift based on weather, field conditions, and construction sequencing.
| Phase |
Timeframe |
What to expect |
| Pre-construction |
Summer 2026 |
Project mailers and direct outreach to the school and nearby stakeholders, and alert sign-up opens. |
| Construction begins |
August 2026 |
Crews mobilize along the corridor. Initial construction and traffic notifications are sent to impacted neighbors. |
| Active construction |
Aug 2026 – Spring 2027 |
Phased sewer installation and replacement along Park Road and McDonald Avenue, with rolling lane closures, detours, and intersection work. Advance notice provided for significant changes. |
| Final restoration |
Summer 2027 |
Roadway and surface restoration, final cleanup, and a project completion update. |
| Project complete |
~ December 2027 |
Corridor work wraps up. This page will be updated to reflect project completion. |
|
Stay Informed
Get construction updates and traffic alerts
The fastest way to stay up to date is to sign up for alerts. We'll send notices about lane closures, detours, school-area traffic, and other changes that may affect your trip — usually in advance of the work.
Get time-sensitive notices by text message for lane closures, detours, and school-area traffic changes. Text DAIRYBRANCH to 201-645-7341. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe at any time.
You can also follow Charlotte Water on social media and check this page for the latest project status.
Project goals
This project will enhance pipe performance, provide increased wastewater capacity for current and future customers and protect the water quality in Dairy Creek. Thank you for your patience as we work to improve sewer service in your neighborhood.
Public involvement
Charlotte Water holds public information meetings throughout the project to update area residents and businesses about the project and any proposed plans. Those within the project area will be contacted via mail when the next public meeting is scheduled.