Aqueduct Project With Waltham Ties Gets State Funding

WALTHAM, MA — A water project in Weston with direct ties to Waltham received grant funding from the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust Board of Trustees in December.

The Massachusetts Water Resource Authority is currently working on a Weston Aqueduct Supply Main Rehabilitation project. According to state data, the project received a $765,124 loan and more than $15,000 in loan forgiveness.

This project focuses on rehabilitating the Weston Aqueduct Supply Main 3, an existing 10-mile, 56- inch to 60-inch diameter, steel water main that supplies the communities of Waltham, Watertown, Belmont, Arlington, Lexington, Bedford and Winchester.

In addition, the pipe conveys flow to the MWRA's Intermediate High, Northern High and Northern Extra High-pressure systems. The pipe, which was built in the 1920s, needs repair due to frequent leaks and aging valves and appurtenances.

It serves as a primary means of backup supply within the MWRA's distribution system in the event of a failure along the City Tunnel and City Tunnel Extension.

“These grants will support vital water projects throughout our state,” said State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg. “By using federal funding, we can reduce costs for our local communities and create positive impacts statewide, particularly in communities that need improvements most.”