Detroit announces $174m alley sewer repair program

Detroit announces $174m alley sewer repair programThe Detroit Water and Sewerage Department is set to bid out a city-wide initiative targeting failed infrastructure in alleys to mitigate flood risks for thousands of homes.

The Deputy Director announced a $174 million project to repair sewers, sinkholes, and failed connections in alleys.

Procurement is expected to begin immediately, with bids opening in mid-February 2026.

The initiative aims to assist at least 10,000 households across all council districts.

The Board also approved a $2.3 million contract increase for as-needed water main replacements.

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) announced plans to advertise a $174 million alley sewer repair project, described as the first major initiative of its kind for the utility. During the Board of Water Commissioners meeting on January 21, 2026, the Deputy Director confirmed that the department intends to advertise the project through the city’s procurement site by the end of the week, with bid openings targeted for the middle of February. The project is designed to repair failed connections and sinkholes located in alleys across every council district in the city. "We hope to help at least 10,000 houses with this money," the Deputy Director told the Board, encouraging contractors of all sizes to pay attention to the upcoming solicitation. The announcement followed public comments regarding persistent basement backups and difficulties accessing sewer lines in alleys. Addressing a resident's concerns earlier in the meeting, Director Brown noted that the department was expecting significant funding to address these specific types of "tight problems" where access is difficult. Brown stated that the new contracts would allow crews to approach sewer issues from the alley side when traditional access is blocked. In addition to the new sewer initiative, the Board approved several contract amendments to support ongoing maintenance. This included a $2.3 million increase to an existing contract with LGC Global, Inc. for as-needed water main replacements, bringing the total contract amount to approximately $16 million. The contractor has an extensive track record in Michigan water infrastructure, having executed lead service line replacements in Flint and transmission main repairs for the Great Lakes Water Authority. The Board also authorized a new $3.88 million contract with Inner City Contracting, LLC for water system improvements along Michigan Avenue and Fort Street. Operational updates provided during the meeting highlighted the impact of recent sub-zero temperatures. Director Brown reported that crews were managing approximately 42 active water main breaks, prioritizing those affecting service to customers or located on main transportation routes.