Lapel approves $2 million sewer system upgrade project

LAPEL — The town of Lapel is starting an upgrade to its sewer system. The Town Council approved an agreement with MS Consultants to reline existing sewer lines. This decision was made on Thursday. Daniel Cutshaw from MS Consultants announced that the flow measurement of the sewer lines is complete. This process found four areas that need repairs. The project is expected to cost around $2 million, which will be paid using utility reserve funds. MS Consultants will handle the design, planning, bidding, and inspection of the relining work. The sewer lines have been in use since the 1950s. The bidding process is set to take place in the next 120 days, with a contract likely awarded by the end of the year. The work may start by the end of the year and can continue through winter. Cutshaw noted that using cameras will help determine which pipes need relining. The contract outlines various payments including $92,000 for design fees and up to $50,000 for inspections. Last month, the town hired Krohn & Associates for a wastewater rate study. This study costs between $5,000 and $7,000 and will also be paid from sewer reserve funds. Currently, the sewer treatment plant is running at 83% capacity and is monitored by state officials. Cutshaw mentioned that after the rate study is done, the town can proceed with plans to expand the plant. This expansion is expected to take three years and cost between $40 million and $50 million. The goal is to boost the plant's capacity from 300,000 gallons per day to one million gallons per day. This expansion is designed to support the town’s needs for the next 20 years.