Current Projects

Locust Avenue Water Line Replacement Project 

Updates - Last updated 2/18/2026 (all timelines are an approximation) 

• Service line connections along the 800 block of Locust Ave are ongoing.
• Service line connections along the 500, 600, and 700 blocks of Locust Ave are complete. 
• Installation of 8" water main along the 500, 600, 700, and 800 blocks of Locust Ave is substantially complete. Areas where street cutting has occurred are patched with temporary asphalt, and temporary metal plates cover sections of Locust Ave where the excavated area requires frequent access. These spots will be paved at the completion of the entire project. 
• During construction along Locust Ave the condition of existing infrastructure at Sycamore St, Long St, E High St, Little High St, and along 10th St NE were identified as in need of attention, and have been determined to be good candidates for replacement while work is already occurring in the immediate area. Incorporating this work into the project along Locust Ave will help provide continuity of upgraded service in the water distribution system, and align with the project's overall goal to improve service. Due to these additions, the project timeline may adjust to account for the added work. 
• Utilities has been in contact with the City school bus division to ensure that school bus pick up and drop off procedures occur safely throughout the duration of construction.  
• Tree trimming along Locust Ave will occur on an ongoing basis. 

Maintenance of Traffic:  Stage 1A - Locust Avenue Northbound Detour Map (PDF)
Bicycle Detour: Locust Avenue Water Line Project Bicycle Detour Map (PDF).  

Background on the Project

The water main along Locust Avenue was installed in 1924, and due to its age, has experienced a steady increase in breaks and leaks with a notable rise to one leak per year in the last decade and three leaks in 2021 alone. This project is pat of the Department of Utilities' ongoing replacement of outdated infrastructure throughout the entire water distribution system and will improve service by bringing the water system in the area up to current industry standards, significantly enhance system reliability, and reduce the risk of future service disruptions.

Project Details

The project will include the installation of approximately 2,900 ft of 8-inch ductile iron pipe, along with associated valves, shutoffs, and appurtenances. Following installation, all affected street will be repaired and restored to meet current municipal standards. 

Questions? Please contact Jim Keller, Utilities Senior Project Manager, at 434-970-3908 or by email at kellerj@charlottesville.gov.