PROJECT NOTICE – PUBLIC TOWN HALL MEETING
Join us to connect with local leaders and project managers, ask questions, share your thoughts, and stay informed on this infrastructure improvement project impacting your neighborhood.
When: May 14, 2025, at 6pm
Where: Bellevue Volunteer Firefighter’s Hall, 2108 Franklin Street
Project: City of Bellevue – Olde Towne CIPP Sanitary Sewer Mainline Rehabilitation Phase 1
Partnering with SAK Construction to Renew Sanitary Sewer Mainline Infrastructure with Minimal Disruption
Project Overview
The City of Bellevue is partnering with SAK Construction for the Olde Towne CIPP Rehabilitation Phase 1 Project to restore aging sanitary sewer lines. This project uses Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining—a trenchless method that creates a new pipe within the existing one. This process is efficient, cost-effective, and minimally invasive.
Impacts on Olde Towne Residents
- No Major Digging: Work is done through existing manholes—no need to dig up roads or yards.
- Advance Notification: Residents will receive notice at least 72 hours prior to any interruption of service.
- Temporary Water Use Limits: Sewer use may be limited for 4–8 hours during active lining.
Benefits to the Olde Towne Area
- Infrastructure Longevity: Adds 50+ years to the sewer system’s life.
- Prevents Sewer Backups: New lining seals cracks and blocks groundwater infiltration.
- Preserves Existing Features: No damage to streets, walkways, or landscaping.
- Cost Savings: Less expensive than traditional excavation methods.
Project Timeline
May 2025 – December 2025. Phase 1 work will be limited to the Olde Towne neighborhood, with specific segments prioritized based on infrastructure condition.
FAQs About CIPP Lining
What is CIPP lining?
CIPP (Cured-In-Place Pipe) is a trenchless method of sewer repair that inserts a resin-coated liner into existing pipes. Once cured, it forms a new, jointless pipe inside the old one.
Is the process safe?
Yes. CIPP materials meet all health and safety standards. Some residents may notice a temporary odor during curing, but it is not harmful and dissipates quickly.
What is all the white "smoke"?
The "smoke" that you see is actually steam that is blown into the CIPP liner to cure and harden it.
What is that odor and why can I smell it inside my house?
On occasion, there may be a “glue like” odor during the curing process that arises from the styrene component in the resin used in CIPP. Once the CIPP is fully cured or hardened, the odor will be eliminated. If you detect an odor in your home, it is likely entering through the pipe that connects your home to the public sewer main. A “U” shaped pipe called a P-trap is located at all drains/plumbing fixtures and is designed to keep sewer gas and other vapors out of your home or building. Floor drains/plumbing fixtures may dry out at the P-trap and allow sewer vapors to enter your home or building.
What can I do to prevent or eliminate the odor?
Pour ½ gallon of water in all plumbing fixtures and drains to fill your P-traps prior to the start of the project. If you smell the odor in your home, ventilate the area by opening windows and doors. Adding more water to the P-traps and using a fan may help eliminate the smell faster. If the odor persists after ventilating, contact the SAK Foreman listed on the door hanger that was provided.
Will my sewer service be affected?
Yes, but only temporarily. Residents will be asked to limit water use during the lining process, which typically lasts 4–8 hours.
Do I need to be home during the work?
No. All work takes place in public right-of-way areas and does not require access to the interior of your home. You will receive notification from SAX Construction team prior to work scheduled on the sanitary sewer mainline where your private sewer is connected.