Contract runs from September 2026 to September 2027, continuing a project that began after a sewer collapse in 2021.
September 25th, 2026: Phase 3 contract takes effectNew here? Follow stories to track developments over time. Create a free account to get updates when stories you care about change.
Overview
Updated Sep 29Richmond's Department of Public Utilities has signed an $8.3 million contract with Tidewater Utility Construction to replace sewer laterals along Forest Hill Avenue. It is the third phase of a multi-year project that began after a sewer line collapsed under the road in 2021.
The contract runs through September 2027, adding to the traffic and business disruption residents have already endured. Its term is 365 days from notice to proceed, though weather and utility conflicts could stretch the work.
Why it matters
Residents and businesses on Forest Hill Avenue face another year of construction noise and traffic disruption as the city replaces aging sewer lines.
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Key Indicators
Voices
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People Involved
Organizations Involved
The city department responsible for water and sewer infrastructure in Richmond.
Company awarded the $8.3 million Phase 3 sewer lateral replacement contract.
Timeline
2021 September 2026
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Phase 3 contract takes effect
Latest ContractCity's $8.3 million contract with Tidewater Utility Construction for the third phase of sewer replacement begins, with a term through September 2027.
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Sewer lateral replacement begins
ConstructionCrews opened the road again to replace sewer laterals running to adjoining businesses, reducing Forest Hill to one lane through November.
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Phase 1 sewer replacement completed
ConstructionThe eastbound lanes of Forest Hill Avenue were rebuilt and opened after the initial phase of sewer replacement.
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Sewer collapses under Forest Hill Avenue
Infrastructure failureThe sewer at 6935 Forest Hill Avenue collapsed in summer 2021, and one line section was replaced on an emergency basis that summer, according to the Department of Public Utilities. Two more sewers collapsed in front of 6815 Forest Hill Avenue on consecutive days in 2024.
Scenarios
Phase 3 completes on schedule, Forest Hill fully reopened by fall 2027
Discussed by: City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (implicit in contract terms)
Weather cooperates, no major utility conflicts arise, and Tidewater finishes the lateral replacements within the 365-day contract period. The road returns to normal two-way traffic by late September 2027, matching the contract end date.
Phase 3 delayed, contract amended
Discussed by: Local media and contractors familiar with utility work
Unexpected buried utilities, wet weather, or supply issues push the work past the initial term. The city would issue a change order or amend the contract to extend the timeline, keeping the lane closure into late 2027 or 2028.
Cost overruns trigger additional city funding
Discussed by: City budgeting analysts and procurement watchdogs
Unexpected ground conditions or engineering changes push the project over the $8.3 million contract value. The city would need to approve a supplemental appropriation or issue a change order, increasing the total cost.
