WS Chronicle

By: Jess Schnur 

Since early March, residents of Winston-Salem may have noticed an increase in road closures and detours along their daily commute. This uptick in roadwork can be attributed to the System-Wide Sewer Rehabilitation project, a city initiative to upgrade local infrastructure with the aim of sustaining the quality and reliability of the Winston-Salem wastewater system.  

“This is a vital investment in our city’s future,” said Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines. “Though we understand the temporary inconveniences, these upgrades will ensure that we have a modern and efficient system to serve our residents for decades.”  

With many of the current pipes being outdated, in need of relining, and due for inspection, work crews have been dispatched to address a series of issues, such as leaks, blockages, and structural deterioration. Other repairs and replacements will include restoring pipelines, manholes and pump stations.  

The project has resulted in numerous road closures in several neighborhoods. “We’ve had to close down several streets for safety reasons, but we’re working hard to keep residents informed and minimize disruptions,” said David Bryant, a spokesperson for the Winston-Salem Utilities Department.  

Some residents have complained that road closures have made it challenging to access and maneuver their neighborhood streets. “I understand the need for the work, but it has made getting in and out of my neighborhood difficult,” said one local resident, Marcus Simmons. “I just hope they finish as quickly as possible.”   

The city has been proactively working to keep residents informed about the timelines and locations of these closures through updates to their website. 

Since March 24, Cherry Street (between Fifth and Sixth streets), Sixth Street (between Cherry and Trade streets), and Bloomfield Drive (between Allen and Wilbur streets) have been closed on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The work is expected to be completed by Friday, March 28, weather permitting. Motorists are encouraged to plan for alternate routes. 

The city emphasizes the project’s necessity to prevent costly emergency repairs down the line, reassuring residents that the inconvenience will pay off in the future. “This is about future-proofing our infrastructure,” said Bryant. “We want to make sure that Winston-Salem’s sewer system is not only up to code but also capable of handling the city’s growth in the years to come.”  

These upgrades will also ensure the improvement of the overall wastewater management system, a reduction in sewage backups, and greater alignment with environmental regulations. The System-Wide Sewer Rehabilitation project is expected to continue in phases throughout 2025, with completion timelines varying by location.