Cal Water is starting an important water infrastructure improvement project in southwest Chico, continuing its efforts to enhance water system reliability and fire protection throughout the community.

Crews will begin work to install 3,100 feet of new eight-inch water main along West 5th Street, between Orange and Salem streets. The project is expected to take 10 to 12 weeks and should be completed in January 2027.

“We appreciate our customers’ patience as we make another important investment in the local water system that our customers rely on every day,” said Evan Markey, Chico District Manager. “Replacing aging water mains is a key part of maintaining a safe and dependable water system and confirming we can continue meeting our customers’ needs for years to come.”

Crews will work Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Temporary asphalt will be applied until permanent paving is completed, which can be up to 30 days after project completion.

Cal Water proactively replaces high-risk and aging pipes through its main replacement program, by taking into consideration how likely a pipeline would leak or break given its age, material, and other site-specific conditions, along with the impact on customers in the event of a leak or break. As part of ongoing infrastructure improvements between 2025 and 2027, Cal Water is working to replace 38,954 feet of aging and high-risk water main throughout the Chico District.

“We will work hard to minimize any temporary inconvenience to our customers as we make water system improvements that will benefit our community for years to come,” Markey said.