Henrico is fast-tracking part of its $300 million water main project, with construction starting this summer — about two years ahead of schedule.
Why it matters: The accelerated timeline reflects Henrico officials’ urgency around having a backup to Richmond’s water system, after last year’s crisis left parts of the region without drinkable water for days.
Driving the news: The county can move more quickly on part of the project because of a separate road expansion near Richmond Raceway, Henrico DPU director Bentley Chan told Axios.
- “If we’re digging up the road, it’s a good opportunity,” Chan said Monday.
- That includes about 6,100 feet of pipeline along Richmond Henrico Turnpike, with construction set to begin in June and wrap by late 2027, Chan said.
- Construction was initially slated for 2028.
Between the lines: The rest of the 13-mile pipeline still requires securing key land near the Richmond Raceway and permits, but Chan said the county is on track for completion around 2030…