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Carnarvon Street Watermain Replacement

Construction Updates

Update: October 29, 2026

Tie-in work will begin on November 3, requiring overnight work and water shutdowns. Businesses and residents will be notified via letter in advance of when the water shutdown for their building will take place.

Overnight work:

  • Dates: November 3 to 17
  • Work Hours: 8:00 pm – 7:00 am
  • Location: Carnarvon Street from Eighth Street to Tenth Street
The work is expected to have a moderate noise impact. Water main tie-ins, work includes pipe cutting, fitting installation, valve operation, and associated pumping and excavation as required. Noise will be reduced by completing preparatory work during daytime hours, minimizing equipment idling, and positioning equipment away from residences where feasible.
 

Anticipated Construction Dates: September 17 to November 30, 2026

Work Hours:

  • Monday - Friday: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Saturdays: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Construction Impacts:

  • Construction noise and dust
  • Temporary traffic disruptions including single lane traffic and/or one way traffic
  • Restricted street parking
  • Bus stop relocation

For the most up-to-date construction information and impacts, visit Roadworks & Construction Projects.

Project Background

The Carnarvon Street Watermain Replacement Project will replace aging water infrastructure along Carnarvon Street between Eighth Street and Tenth Street.

The work includes installing approximately 260 metres of watermain, two new fire hydrants, and six large-diameter service connections. The project is intended to renew existing water infrastructure and improve the reliability of the water distribution system after the watermain break in the spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the work so loud?

The initial work involved utility locates. A utility locate is the process of identifying and marking underground utility lines, such as gas, water, electrical, and telecommunications, before excavation begins. This work may involve hydrovac excavation and, where necessary, jackhammers to carefully expose and confirm the location of existing utilities. These activities can generate high levels of intermittent noise.

Now that utility locates are complete, the contractor will begin excavating the road to access the existing watermain. This may involve jackhammers or other equipment to break and remove the existing pavement, followed by excavation to access the watermain. The replacement of the watermain itself will generally involve more moderate levels of construction noise.

Is there somewhere quieter I can go to do work or spend time?

Check out Anvil Centre on the second floor or the New Westminster Public Library. There are tables and free wifi available at both locations.

Why is this work being done?

The project will renew the water infrastructure after the watermain break in the spring. Although a temporary fix was put in place after the watermain break, this full renewal will help ensure reliability of the water distribution system providing water to homes and businesses downtown.

Contact

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please contact Shahrzad Eghtesadi, at .