The estimated cost to replace the sewer lines along Highway 19A between Maryland Road and Twillingate Road during phase one was estimated at $575,000, to be paid from the City’s sewer capital reserve funds. The final project costs are $1.162 million, to be paid from the City’s sewer capital reserve funds. Construction conditions for phase one were more challenging than expected, and unforeseen circumstances ultimately impacted the budget.
Those circumstances included the presence of bedrock, which required removal and led to increased labour and equipment costs. The decision to proactively switchover the service connection and abandon the old sewer main during this excavation—thereby avoiding the need for a second excavation—was another factor. Traffic management through this narrow stretch of highway and the need for increased site security also contributed to higher-than-anticipated project costs.
The second phase of the sewer capacity expansion will be delivered by the land developer. Through the municipal development works agreement, the City will contribute a portion of the project’s cost from the sewer capital reserve fund rather than through increased property taxation.
The total cost for this sewer upgrade is estimated at $2,858,000, to be shared between the City and local developers.