Work on the Sheridan Road water main commenced today, and is expected to continue through the month of August.  The Chicago Department of Water Management is replacing an old water main pipe that dates back to the 1890′s and installing 2,837 feet of 8-inch water main.  The work will occur on Sheridan road between Thorndale and West Sheridan/Devon.

According to Tom LaPorte, Assistant Commissioner with the Department of Water Management, work begins with test holes and other “mobilization” activities today, and once principle installation begins traffic on Sheridan Road will be reduced to three lanes.  The western most lane will be closed for the duration of the project.  During Rush Hour, two lanes will be southbound in the morning and northbound in the afternoon, while only two lanes (one each way) will be open during non rush hour.

Some residents will also have their water shut off – both planned and potentially unplanned.  Affected buildings will be notified at least 24 hours prior to having their water shut off, however with this type of work it is not unusual to have emergency shutdowns should the crews hit a service pipe or if the old main breaks.

The majority of the work will be conducted from 9am – 4pm during the week, however some weekend work may occur as well.  The project is expected to be completed by Labor Day, however it could run longer if the weather or other factors do not cooperate.  The Chicago Department of Transportation will then follow with curb replacements and street resurfacing.