Project Overview
Construction on the Contract One Sewer Rehabilitation Project began Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The Sanitary Sewer System Rehabilitation and Improvements – Contract 1 project is required by the City’s Consent Decree with the United Stated Environmental Protection Agency. The purpose of the project is to remove Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) in the City’s sewer collection system. I/I is when stormwater and groundwater enter the sewer collection system through deterioration in the sewer pipes or manholes. This results in increased sewer flows, more frequent Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) events, and increased sewer costs through pumping and treatment of otherwise clean water. The City accepted funds through the American Rescue Act Plan (ARPA) to assist with costs related to design and construction. The ARPA funding deadline means the project must be completed by April 1, 2026.
Project Map
Project Updates
Week of April 13, 2026 Apr 13, 2026
Middle Street
As part of the Contract 1 Sewer Rehabilitation project, the City is investigating a section of sewer pipe between Richards Avenue and #180. Starting Monday, April 13, traffic will be rerouted while test pits are dug to determine the scope of work
Blue Heron Avenue
Contract 1 work is also planned for this area, starting the week of April 13.
Week of April 6, 2026 Apr 6, 2026
Greenleaf Avenue CLOSED on Monday and Tuesday between Lafayette Road and the Route 1 Bypass .
Expect delays through Friday, April 10, 2026, between 7 am and 4 pm. Please seek alternative route.
Week of March 23, 2026 Mar 23, 2026
Greenleaf Avenue & Vicinity
As part of the Contract 1 Sewer Rehabilitation project, the City is repairing a ten-foot section of sewer main located in the parking lot of Wamesit Place, a Portsmouth Housing Authority property (31 Holiday Drive), The open trench work is complete but the main still needs to be lined. Greenleaf Avenue will remain CLOSED between Lafayette Road and the Route 1 Bypass through Friday, April 3, 2026, between 7 am and 4 pm. The project requires drilling out ledge, which will take place for several days, starting Tuesday, March 31.
Week of March 23, 2026 Mar 23, 2026
Marjorie Street
As part of the Contract 1 Sewer Rehabilitation project, the City worked on a section of sewer main located in front of 30 Marjorie Street. Final paving is anticipated the week of March 30.
Week of March 23, 2026 Mar 23, 2026
Maple Haven
The Suzanne Drive - Wallis Road area work is complete.