City of Lowell · Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility

Lower Highlands Sewer Separation — Phase 3A

Modernizing sewer, stormwater, and water infrastructure in the Lower Highlands neighborhood.

2026 – 2028 Phase 3A of 3

💧 Why this project matters

Lowell's combined sewer system releases approximately 430 million gallons of overflow per year during heavy rain — flooding streets, causing sewer backups, and polluting the Merrimack and Concord rivers. This project separates stormwater from sewage to protect your neighborhood and local waterways.

21

acres separated

14,100

feet of new drainage

18M

gal/yr overflow reduced

📍 Project area

Saunders St · Inland St · School St · Fernald St · Spring Ave · Sawtelle Pl · Portions of Middlesex, Westford, and Grove Streets

🔧 Work sequence

1 Gas main relocation
2 Sewer main replacement
3 Water main replacement
4 New drainage pipes

ℹ️ What to expect

⏰ Work hours: 7 AM – 5 PM 🚗 Temporary street closures & parking restrictions 🪨 Trench plating for off-hours access 🚑 Emergency access always maintained 🔔 Advance notice of utility disruptions ⏸️ Periods of inactivity between utility stages

💰 Funding

The City of Lowell is funding this project through a combination of state-subsidized loans, federal grants, and local wastewater enterprise funds — structured to minimize the impact on ratepayers.

🗓️ Project phasing

2026 – 2028

Phase 3A

Lower Saunders, School & Inland

2028 – 2030

Phase 3B

Grand Area

2029 – 2032

Phase 3C

Pevey Area

Stay informed

Sign up for updates · Follow on Facebook · Email sewer@lowellma.gov

Full project site →

📞 Contact

📧 sewer@lowellma.gov 📍 451 First Street Blvd, Lowell MA 01850 ☎️ Sewer Dept (24/7): 978-674-4248 ☎️ Water Dept (24/7): 978-674-4240
Lower Highlands Public Infrastructure Modernization Plan

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