Frequently Asked Questions

UNWI 1 & 2 - Part of the Elkhorn and Natomas Boulevard Sewer Connection Project

What is an interceptor?

An interceptor is a large underground sewer pipeline varying from 36 to 144 inches in diameter that collects wastewater from local sewer lines. SRCSD has approximately 90 miles of interceptors that send wastewater from local collection systems in the urbanized Sacramento area to the Sacramento Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant in Elk Grove.

Why is the project needed?

The Upper Northwest Interceptor (UNWI) is one of several projects being constructed by the Sacramento Regional County Sanitation District (SRCSD). This project is divided into several sections, including UNWI 1 & 2. This section is needed because the existing wastewater conveyance system serving the northeast part of Sacramento county is nearing capacity. To ensure reliable sewer service and to meet future demands for increased capacity, construction of a new sewer system is necessary.

What is the planned route?

The 3.65-mile UNWI 1 & 2 project route begins at Bridgecross Drive and runs south along the East Drainage Canal adjacent to Natomas Boulevard and Truxel Road to the New Natomas Pump Station, near the intersection of Interstates 5 and 80.

What does the project involve?

UNWI 1 & 2 includes approximately 19,300 feet of 144-inch pipe using tunneling methods. The project also includes:

• 55 feet of 120-inch interceptor pipeline
• 20 access manholes spaced approximately 1,000 feet apart along the alignment
• 84-inch by 144-inch transition structure
• 144-inch by 120-inch transition structure
• Connection of three existing smaller sewer lines

What can I expect during construction?

UNWI 1 & 2 construction hours are between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. Additionally, underground tunneling will occur 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week at the New Natomas Pump Station. This underground method was selected to minimize impacts to the public. The only excavation visible along the alignment will be for manhole installation.

How will the project affect the community?

Throughout project construction, the project team will do everything possible to minimize impacts to the community. However, certain disruptions may be unavoidable, such as:

• Increased noise and dust
• Occasional lane closures/lane shifts

The project team will communicate construction details in advance of any anticipated impacts and will work with affected residents and businesses to minimize inconveniences.

When necessary, the project team will leave door hangers at residences and businesses at least 72 hours prior to any construction activities that may lead to direct impacts.

What is the anticipated timeline for construction?

What safety measures are in place on the project?

During construction, safety is our number one concern! Be aware of cones, flaggers and construction signs.

• Motorists are asked to be patient and observe and obey all traffic controls including reduced speed limits. Please watch for construction workers, and keep in mind that traffic violations in construction zones often result in higher fines. Remember to Share the Road with bicyclists.
• Bicyclists are encouraged to walk bikes around the construction zone where designated and ride with the flow of traffic.
• Pedestrians are asked to observe sidewalk closures and walk only in designated areas through construction zones. Please cross only at legal crosswalks and do not jump concrete barriers.
• Children should stay away from construction areas at all times. Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk to their children about the dangers of playing near construction zones.

Please stay alert, watch for construction workers and obey all traffic signs in construction zones!

As always, SRCSD utilizes comprehensive safety measures to secure the construction zone:

• Excavations will either be covered with steel plates, back-filled or fenced off from public access when not in use.
• Concrete barriers will block the construction area from street traffic.

How is the project funded?

This project is entirely funded through sewer connection fees. Customers' monthly sewer bills will not be increased due to this project.

How can I get more information about the projects?

For more information, please call the toll-free, 24-hour project hotline at (866) 479-0600.

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