Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility
Douglas & Windward Flood Relief Tank
Modernizing sewer, stormwater, and water infrastructure in the Lower Highlands neighborhood.
Project Overview
The Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility is constructing a new underground Flood Relief Storage Tank near Douglas Road to help reduce neighborhood flooding and improve the performance of the City’s combined sewer system during heavy rain events.
The project will provide approximately 1.83 million gallons of underground storage, temporarily capturing excess stormwater and wastewater during major storms. By storing these flows until the wastewater treatment system has available capacity, the project will reduce street flooding, decrease sewer surcharging, and help protect nearby homes and infrastructure.
Construction began in Spring 2025 and is expected to continue through Fall 2026, with final paving anticipated in Spring/Summer 2027.
Why This Project Matters
Residents in the Windward Road and Douglas Road neighborhood have experienced recurring flooding during significant rainstorms. Much of the area’s sewer infrastructure dates back to the 1930s, while portions of the drainage system were constructed between the 1950s and 1980s. Recent extreme rainfall events have placed increasing demands on this aging infrastructure.
The Flood Relief Storage Tank is designed to provide additional capacity during heavy storms, reducing pressure on the sewer system and lowering the risk of roadway flooding and sewer surcharging.
Project Area
Construction is taking place within the Douglas Road parking area adjacent to Cawley Stadium and the Janas Memorial Skating Rink.
The project serves the surrounding neighborhood, including portions of:
- Douglas Road
- Windward Road
- Alcott Street
- Donald Terrace
- Cawley Stadium
- Janas Memorial Skating Rink
Project Benefits
Once complete, the project will:
- Reduce street flooding during major rain events
- Provide approximately 1.83 million gallons of underground storage
- Improve the performance of the City’s combined sewer system
- Reduce sewer surcharging during heavy rainfall
- Help protect nearby homes, businesses, and public infrastructure
- Restore and repave the Douglas Road parking area following construction
How the Flood Relief Tank Works
During dry weather, wastewater flows normally to the treatment facility.
During larger rainstorms, stormwater entering the combined sewer system can temporarily exceed the capacity of existing pipes.
The underground Flood Relief Storage Tank captures this excess flow during the storm, holding it until capacity becomes available within the wastewater system. The stored water is then gradually conveyed for treatment after the storm has passed.
This additional storage helps reduce street flooding and improves overall system reliability during severe weather.
Temporary Traffic Impacts
To safely complete utility connections, a temporary detour will be implemented during a portion of construction. Advance notice, signed detour routes, and traffic control measures will help maintain access while work is underway.
Project Phasing and Timeline
Current Progress
Construction of the Flood Relief Storage Tank continues on schedule.
Recent work has included:
- Completion of the tank’s base, walls, and roof structure
- Utility installation, including water main and electrical work
- Preparation for tank equipment installation
- Connection of the storage tank to the combined sewer system
- Site restoration and backfilling activities
Additional construction updates will be posted throughout the project.
Modernizing Lowell’s Water & Wastewater Infrastructure.
Contact
- 451 First Street Boulevard Lowell, MA 01850
- sewer@lowellma.gov
- (978) 674-4248