Holcomb and Wilson Street Sewer Upsizing Project

ADDING CAPACITY AND UPDATING our sewer system

Project Update: February 11, 2026

Current Status:

The project is currently in the 90% design phase. Engineering plans are nearly complete and are being reviewed by City staff to confirm details, address final comments, and prepare the project for construction bidding. 

Over the next few months, the City will:

• Finalize engineering plans
• Prepare construction bid documents
• Conduct a tree protection review with a certified arborist

Construction is anticipated to begin Summer 2026, following contractor selection and City Council approval. 

As we get closer to construction, the City will provide:

• Start date confirmation
• Traffic and access information
• Work hours and noise expectations

The Holcomb and Wilson Sewer Upsizing Project will upgrade and relocate a sewer line near Holcomb and Wilson Streets. A recent city analysis identified undersized sewer pipes that cannot meet future demand. One of these segments, located in the area between Holcomb and Wilson Streets, will struggle to handle peak flows as the Rainier Subarea develops. Without upgrades, the system risks sewer overtopping, making this project essential for preventing future failures and supporting new housing, including the Madrona Ridge subdivision.

Project contact:

Mike Connelly, P.E., Project Manager

(360) 531-2761

mconnelly@cityofpt.us

Project Background 

The existing sewer infrastructure in the Holcomb and Wilson Street area presents significant challenges that necessitate this project. With the development of the Rainier Subarea and Mill Road lift station, the current sewer line is undersized and will be unable to efficiently handle future peak flow conditions. By upsizing the sewer line, the City can prevent future failures, reduce operational costs, and provide a long-term solution for wastewater management. 

The Holcomb and Wilson Sewer Upsizing project focuses on upsizing and relocating the sewer line from the Sims Way crossing in the vicinity of Wilson Street and Holcomb Street.

During the design phase, the City evaluated the original sewer alignment and approved a revised route to improve constructability, long term maintenance access, and reduce impacts to private property. 

What changed?

• The sewer alignment shifted west between Wilson Street and SR-20
• The pipe will now run under Cleveland Street and along the side of Sims Way
• Approximately 250 additional linear feet of sewer main was added
• Minor manhole location adjustments were made

Why this is better:

• Keeps the sewer entirely within City right-of-way
• Avoids construction in more private backyards
• Reduces deep excavation near homes
• Improves long-term maintenance access
• Improves hydraulic performance (more elevation = better gravity driven performance)

Total project cost is estimated at 1.34 million. The project is funded solely by sewer rates. 

Project Timeline:

The project planning started in January 2025 and will be completed November/December 2026.

Other project milestones are outlined below:

• Site investigation and Options Analysis: January 2025 - September 2025
• Design: May 2025 - March 2026
• Bid & Advertise for Construction: April 2026-May 2026
• Construction: July 2026-November 2026
• Project Closeout: November/December 2026
   

​​​​Expectations for Project Impact:

Potential impacts will primarily impact property owners in neighborhoods on 7^th Street, Wilson Street, and Holcomb Street. Work may involve temporary disruptions such as road closures, noise, and access restrictions. We will provide additional notices as the project progresses.

Potential impacts include:

• Temporary sewer service disruptions
• Partial road closures on Cleveland, Sims Way, 7th and Holcomb Streets
• Construction noise from dump trucks and heavy equipment
• Temporary closure of property driveways
• Work hours are anticipated to be 8am-6pm (This may be subject to change).

Recommendations for parents and pet owners:

• Supervise children near any work zones: Keep kids away from construction areas and educate them on dangers of playing near trenches or equipment.
• Secure pets indoors or on a leash: If you have outdoor pets, ensure they are kept indoor or leashed when outside to prevent them from wandering into work zones.
•  Follow construction notices: Check for updates on road closures and expected work schedule to plan for safe routes for walking or biking.

The City will provide advance notice to any construction activities that may affect nearby residents. 

Thank you for your support in improving our essential community infrastructure!

When available you can find the Request for Bid Proposals here: https://cityofpt.us/rfps

Frequently Asked Questions:

Will my sewer service be interrupted?

No major service interruptions are expected. Temporary bypass pumping may be used during tie-ins. 

Will construction occur in my backyard?

No. The revised alignment keeps the sewer within City right-of-way. 

Will trees be removed?

The City will make it's best effort to reduce impacts to nearby trees. Tree protection measures are being reviewed by a certified arborist to minimize impacts. 

How will traffic be affected?

Short-term lane closures and traffic control will occur during construction. 

Why is this project happening now?

The project must be completed ahead of increased flows associated with the Mill Lift Station and future development. 

March 3, 2025 Agenda Bill for this project can be found in City Council archives here: https://cityofpt.us/citycouncil/page/agendasminutesvideos

General Sewer Plan (SM1 and SM3): https://cityofpt.us/citycouncil/page/city-plans

2025-2030 Capital Facilities Plan:  https://cityofpt.us/citycouncil/page/city-plans

Project Overview Map: