Sanitary Sewer Improvement Project to Begin Monday, April 13

Published on April 09, 2026

Update (May 26): Additional Resident Guidance Regarding Sewer Improvement Project

As work progresses on the Township’s sanitary sewer improvement project, the Township is providing additional information and guidance related to the Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining process being used in portions of the project. The information below is intended to help residents better understand the process and prepare for temporary conditions that may occur while work is underway.

Residents in affected areas will receive two direct notices from the contractor prior to work occurring on their street - one approximately one week in advance, and a second notice approximately 24 hours before work begins.

CIPP lining allows sewer pipes to be repaired internally with minimal excavation. The process uses a felt liner and resin material that is cured in place using steam. 

The resin used in the CIPP process contains styrene, a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC). During installation, there is the potential for temporary styrene odors or vapors to travel through sewer laterals and enter structures through dry drain traps, faulty plumbing connections, cracks in foundations, or subsurface voids.

After receiving the 24-hour notice, residents can help minimize the potential for odors entering their homes or buildings by:

• Running water through all plumbing fixtures connected to the sanitary sewer system, including sinks, tubs, showers, and floor drains, to ensure drain traps remain full
• Keeping the drain trap full with provides a barrier that helps prevent sewer gases and odors from entering buildings during construction. See the diagram below: 

Styrene can be an irritant to the upper respiratory tract, eyes, nose, and throat. It may also cause headaches, fatigue, changes in color vision, concentration, or balance problems. Residents experiencing persistent symptoms or concerns may contact the Montclair Health Department at (973) 509-4970 during regular business hours. After hours, residents may contact Police Dispatch at (973) 744-1234.

For additional information regarding CIPP lining and styrene, residents can visit NASSCO.org, or EPA.gov.

---------------------------

The Township will be initiating a sanitary sewer improvement project in Zone U (see map below or download PDF here) of the sewer system beginning on or about Monday, April 13, 2026. 

This project is part of the Township’s ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade critical infrastructure, ensuring reliable sewer service and protecting public health and the environment. Residents are encouraged to reference the map below provided by the Water Bureau to view streets that may be affected by this work.

Important: Residents who are directly impacted by construction activity will be notified by the contractor in advance of work beginning on their street.

What to expect during construction:

• Temporary traffic impacts or lane closures
• Construction activity during daytime working hours
• Possible noise and limited access in certain areas

The Township and its contractors will make every effort to minimize disruptions and maintain access for residents and emergency services at all times.

We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we complete this important work. Updates will be provided as the project progresses.

Please call the Water Bureau at 973-744-4600 for any questions.