Dear Residents,

At the present time, the borough is in the process of installing upgraded sanitary and storm sewers in the area of Grand Avenue and State Street. Within the next few weeks, work will begin in the area of Beethoven Avenue, Van Buren Street and Gibson Place. The balance of the schedule, weather permitting, addresses Railroad Avenue (early June), Christine Place (early June), South Prospect Street (middle to late June), East Stewart Street (early to middle of July), West Warren (middle to end of July), West Johnston Street (early August) and various small sections of Cherry, Flower and Park Avenues during August into September. It is anticipated that all paving and restoration work will be completed during the remainder of the year with the entire project being completed by the end of December, 2005.

The extraneous flow, or inflow and infiltration, project is addressing the challenges that an aging sewer system present. Over time, pipes shift and separate, crack or crumble, causing outside water to enter the system. After extensive studies, it was determined there was a significant amount of unwanted water entering the sanitary sewer lines, thereby causing excess flow within the sewer plant. The sewer plant is authorized to receive 1.1 million gallons per day in accordance with its New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection discharge permit. During significant storm events, there had been a risk of “surcharging” within the system. By completing this project, there will be a marked reduction in the potential for excess flows going into the sanitary sewer system. It is anticipated the entire project, encompassing approximately 12 different areas of the Borough, will be finished by the end of 2005.

We apologize, in advance, for any inconvenience this project may cause the citizens of the Borough of Washington during the process. If you do encounter any extraordinary disturbances, or feel that there is a safety issue on or near your residence, please contact the manager’s office immediately at 689-3600 ext 120.