Critical Waterlines

Critical Waterlines is a major waterline replacement project affecting much of the southeast area of the city, along with many blocks along East Third Street. Persistent leaks in this area have contributed to street damage, which can be more effectively repaired once the new lines are installed. This project will improve long‑term system reliability, reduce the need for sudden water shut‑offs for leak repairs, and support safer, smoother travel for residents in both Truth or Consequences and Williamsburg.

UPDATE: 3/10/2026	Critical Waterlines FY23 HUD B-23-CP-NM 1048 & NMFA WTB WPF 6323
PURPOSE	This major infrastructure effort focuses on preventing ongoing leaks in the “metal streets” area, as well as replacing aging waterlines near the Gardner Learning Center, Jones Street, and East Third Street.
TIMELINE	The project remains on track to go out to bid in June 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in September 2026, though these timeframes may shift as design and permitting progress. Permit applications for the New Mexico Department of Transportation and the Drinking Water Bureau have already been drafted. Additionally, a separate coordination meeting will be scheduled with Fire Department Chief Tooley, the Water Department, and Wilson & Company engineers to review the hundreds of fire hydrants located within the project area.
SCOPE	The project will address approximately 33,668 linear feet of waterlines to improve system reliability and reduce water loss in some of the most leak‑prone parts of the community.
BENEFITS	The Critical Waterlines Project will deliver several important benefits to the community by strengthening some of the city’s oldest and most leak‑prone water infrastructure. Replacing these aging lines will help reduce water loss, improve overall system reliability, and decrease the likelihood of disruptive emergency repairs. The upgrades will also support better water pressure and flow throughout the project area, enhancing everyday service for residents and improving fire protection capabilities. By investing in these improvements now, the City is building a more resilient and efficient water system that will serve homes, businesses, and community facilities well into the future.
DISRUPTIONS	The project may cause several temporary disruptions as construction progresses throughout the project area. Residents and businesses may experience intermittent traffic delays, lane reductions, or detours as crews work along various streets. Construction activity may also lead to short‑term noise, dust, and vibrations during normal working hours. In some locations, on‑street parking may be limited while crews access underground utilities. Planned water service interruptions may occur at times, though these will be minimized and communicated in advance. Pedestrian access near work zones may be temporarily rerouted to ensure safety. While these impacts are expected with a project of this size, the City will work to keep them as limited and short‑lived as possible.
MITIGATION STRATEGIES	As the Critical Waterlines Project moves into construction, the City is implementing several mitigation strategies to reduce disruptions for residents, businesses, and community facilities. Work will be carefully phased to maintain traffic flow, preserve access to homes and businesses, and minimize water service interruptions. When planned outages or street impacts are necessary, the City will provide advance notice through multiple communication methods, including mailed notices, door hangers, social media, and/or alerts sent through Daupler. Contractors will follow best practices to limit dust and noise, and coordination with emergency services, particularly the Fire Department, will ensure hydrant access and response routes remain fully functional. Special attention will also be given to sensitive areas such as the Naydne Gardner Learning Center to maintain safe access throughout construction. These efforts are designed to keep the community informed, protected, and supported as the project progresses.
FUNDING	Department of Housing and Urban Development (Senator Heinrich) for $1,600,000 grant amount NMFA WTB - $14,000,000 grant; match requirement $1,600,000; loan at $1,600,000
TOTAL FUNDING FOR PLANNING, DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION & CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT	$19,000,000 to $20,000,000
APPLICATION ENGINGEER	Wilson & Company
ENGINEER	To be determined.
CONTRACTORS	To be determined.
RESOURCES	None at this time.