Hammond Avenue Water System Upgrade
Superior Water, Light & Power is upgrading its water distribution system to ensure long-term safety and reliability. Old cast iron water mains and service lines made of galvanized steel, lead or copper will be replaced with high density polyethylene pipe, commonly known as HDPE.
Approximately 3,200 feet of cast iron water main and 73 service lines made of galvanized steel, lead or copper will be replaced with HDPE. Valves and fire hydrants will also be replaced. Phase 2 in 2025 will be between North 21st Street and North 28th Street along Hammond Avenue.
We’re upgrading our water system along part of Hammond Avenue while the City of Superior is reconstructing the roadway, sidewalks and storm sewers as part of its Hammond Avenue Reconstruction Project.
Our goal is to safely complete the improvements with as few disruptions as possible.
Meanwhile, as we work to upgrade and replace the water mains and service lines we own, we’re also helping customers understand what they should do if the service lines they own are made of lead.
More information at swlp.com/CustomerService/WaterServiceLineInventory.
What parts of Superior are affected?
What can I expect during construction?
During construction, you can expect the following in your neighborhood:
- SWL&P employees and contractors working in roadways and yards. A1 Excavating out of Bloomer, Wisconsin, will install the new water mains and service lines under the direct supervision of SWL&P and our inspectors.
- Underground utility locations will be mapped using locator flags and paint.
- Construction work, including holes and trenches, in roadways, boulevards and yards. For safety, disturbed areas may be temporarily restored as a part of the City of Superior’s Hammond Avenue reconstruction.
- Please pay close attention to all roadway and construction area signage the duration of the project.
How long will I be without water service?
Our priority is to keep disruptions to a minimum, and we expect to complete the switchover from the old pipe to the new pipe and restore service in a timely fashion. Contractors will give you advance notice of the temporary disruption in service.
After your service is reconnected, water can sometimes appear cloudy. It is recommended you open your tap for up to 15 minutes until water runs clear.
Why am I getting a water pitcher and filter from SWL&P?
As part of Environmental Protection Agency regulations, utilities must distribute free water pitchers with filters to customers when they perform work on their water systems to better protect communities from any potential exposure to lead in drinking water. The regulations are part of the federal Lead and Copper Rule.
This easy-to-use Brita Pacifica water pitcher and filter is certified to NSF/ANSI 53 certification. You’ll receive the pitcher and filter when we complete our upgrade.
To learn more about how we keep your water safe and our ongoing water service line inventory, click here.
Verifying electrical grounding
For many years, it was common practice for a building’s electrical system to be grounded to the metallic water service. As we replace the old water main and service piping with high density polyethylene pipe, or HDPE, the new piping will no longer provide electrical grounding protection if your home or business is currently grounded to the water service.
- To avoid the possibility of an electrical hazard for you and your family, as well as to utility workers, the grounding method currently used at your property must be verified prior to the installation of the new HDPE water service to your property line and its connection to your water service.
- To verify your electrical system’s grounding and make any changes if needed because of the planned water system improvements, you may need to contact a Wisconsin licensed electrician.
- Any electrical work that may be necessary is your responsibility. You will also be responsible for obtaining proper permits and having the work inspected by the City of Superior.
How can I get more information?
- Call SWL&P Customer Service at 800-227-7957
- Visit the City of Superior's Information Page for this project
