By David Wiwchar

traffic delays for Franklin River Road

Alberni pipes to be replaced

Apr 2, 2026 | 9:28 AM

Drivers along Franklin River Road could face slight delays over the next few months.

Starting Monday, crews from Hazelwood Construction will begin replacing the city’s main water pipes from the Bainbridge Treatment Plant.

City Director of Infrastructure Jim MacDonald says the 64-year old steel pipes are overdue for replacement.

“We want to ensure that our infrastructure is maintained in a responsible manner,” he said. “The original pipe is from 1962 and has reached the end of it’s useful life. Just in terms of asset management and good engineering practice we’re ensuring that our pipe is replaced prior to it failing.”

This first phase of the project will see 1.1 kilometres of pipe replaced, including the exposed portion that was damaged after being hit by a logging truck in 2023.

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The new watermain will be a high-density polyethylene pipe located entirely underground and carries an expected lifespan of 100 years.

The project may require the City to implement temporary water restrictions in July to allow for the new watermain to be connected, but advance public notice will be provided.