POULSBO — The Poulsbo City Council unanimously approved a $205,294 engineering consultant contract Oct. 21 for the first phase of a multiyear project to replace aging water mains in the city’s Old Town neighborhood.
The agreement with BHC will fund design work for the Old Town Water Main Replacement Project, Phase One, with construction anticipated in summer 2027.
The project targets aging infrastructure in the area between Fjord Drive and the highway south of Hostmark.
The first phase will concentrate on Ness Place, Eliason and Harrison, where the city plans to replace approximately 2,500 feet of old water main.
City staff said the existing infrastructure includes undersized cast-iron pipes that need replacement.
The project will combine water main replacement with sewer repairs and roadway improvements.
Work will include repairing some side sewer connections and resurfacing streets after underground construction is completed.
The city selected BHC from its list of on-call engineering consultants. The contract includes surveying, engineering design and assistance with the construction bidding process.
The design work is expected to prepare the project for bidding and construction next summer.
Mayor Edward Stern raised concerns about unexpected conditions that could be encountered during underground construction.
He referenced difficulties during the city’s Sixth Avenue project and encouraged staff to incorporate lessons from that work into the Old Town project.
Staff acknowledged that additional conditions could be discovered during design and construction and said an appropriate contingency would be established as planning progresses.
The city also expects to contact property owners because some water meters will need to be relocated, requiring access to private property.
The project is part of the city’s capital improvement program for 2026 and 2027.
The council approved the consultant contract without dissent, authorizing the mayor to sign the agreement on the city’s behalf.
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