Work is underway on a water main project on Route 40 in Bear.
Artesian Water Co. stated that the 10-month-long project is now underway.
The project comes in conjunction with a highway widening project in the same area of Route 40, slated to begin in early 2025.
Artesian’s contractor, Austin & Bednash Construction, Inc., will work Monday through Friday, weather-permitting. This project will require occasional night work. The contractor will not work on major holidays.
The main installation will take place within the state’s right-of-way along the north side of Route 40, between Becks Woods Road and Salem Church Road and the south side of Route 40, between Porter Road and Walther Road. Minor traffic impacts are expected throughout the project as lane shifts and shoulder closures will occur from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., while travel lane closures will occur from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
If the work will temporarily impact access to any property, the contractor will notify the property owner before work begins along their property boundary to allow for planning. At the end of each work day, the contractor will close any trenches to minimize parking issues and allow for access to driveways. Final restoration will take place at the end of the project.
Artesian customers will affected toward the end of the project during scheduled shutdowns of water service. Advance notice will be provided.
The water mains on Route 40 were installed more than 60 years ago.
Along with the water main replacement, new service lines and new meter pits will be installed where necessary.
Further information will be available from Artesian’s customer service representatives who can be contacted at (302) 453-6930, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
