City of Salisbury announces raw water main replacement project

SALISBURY, Md. — The City of Salisbury is beginning a major infrastructure project to replace a nearly century-old raw water main that carries water from the city’s well field to its water treatment plant, city officials said.

The project will replace about 3,300 feet of pipeline, with pipe sizes ranging from 8 inches to 24 inches. Several sections of the new main will be installed using boring methods, including beneath a river, according to the city’s Department of Water Works.

Parts of the existing raw water main date back to 1925. While a section closest to the treatment plant was replaced in 2006 following a failure, the remaining portions  including piping and valves connected to active wells — are considered the most in need of replacement. City officials said the segment from the plant to Well 15 is the oldest and most critical.

Construction is planned so that water service will not be interrupted. The new main will be connected to the existing system, but valves will remain closed until the transition is complete. Wet leads will be installed one at a time to allow coordinated well shutdowns during connections.

Residents are advised that portions of the walking path through City Park and near the Salisbury Zoo may be temporarily affected during construction. Work is beginning near the dog park and tennis courts and will continue along the East Branch past Memorial Plaza.

The project is expected to be completed by fall 2026. City officials said the upgrades are necessary to ensure long-term reliability of Salisbury’s water system.