LYNN — The Lynn Water & Sewer Commission (LWSC) today announced the successful completion of the first phase of its Facilities Plan, the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project, marking a major milestone in the City’s long-term effort to modernize its wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and improve water quality in the Saugus River and Lynn Harbor.
Initiated in response to the Third Modified Consent Decree, the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project represents more than seven years of planning, design, and construction in one of Lynn’s most densely developed neighborhoods. The project separated approximately 260 acres of combined sewer area, reducing combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and strengthening the system’s resiliency during severe weather events.
With a total investment of approximately $120 million, funded through Clean Water State Revolving Fund loans to be paid over the next 20 years, this first phase included the construction of more than 26,000 linear feet of new storm drain infrastructure, including a 72-inch diameter trunk drain installed up to 20 feet below grade and running parallel to the City’s more than 100-year-old Western Interceptor. Due to the low elevation of the neighborhood, the project also required construction of a 90-million-gallon-per-day stormwater pump station, a 54-inch force main extending more than half a mile, and a new ocean outfall to Lynn Harbor.
One of the most complex elements of the project involved trenchless construction beneath the Lynnway (Route 1A), as well as crossings beneath active transportation and utility corridors. These efforts allowed critical infrastructure to be installed while minimizing long-term impacts to traffic and surrounding communities.
The project was delivered through four coordinated construction contracts to meet court-ordered schedules, all while navigating significant technical, regulatory, and financial challenges. LWSC worked closely with state and federal agencies to advance the project while remaining mindful of the financial capacity of the community and the long-term affordability of rates for customers. Project costs will be repaid over time as part of the Commission’s broader capital improvement and debt management program.
LWSC extended special thanks to the residents, businesses, and commuters in West Lynn for their patience and cooperation throughout years of construction activity. The Commission acknowledged that the work required prolonged roadway disruptions, noise, and access challenges, and emphasized that community understanding was critical to the project’s success.
“The patience shown by the people who live and work in this neighborhood made this project possible,” said the contractor for the work in the neighborhood streets, P Gioioso & Sons. “We know the construction was disruptive at times, and we are deeply grateful for the understanding and resilience of the community.”
The Lynn Water & Sewer Commission also recognized Stantec, the project’s engineering consultant, for its leadership in planning, design, regulatory coordination, and construction support throughout the duration of the project. Stantec worked closely with LWSC to address complex site conditions, coordinate with regulatory agencies, and adapt designs in real time as construction progressed.
With the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project now operational, LWSC will continue advancing the remaining phases of CSO projects, building on lessons learned to deliver future improvements as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.
