New Orleans expands use of trenchless technology to modernize underground pipes
(UI) — The City of New Orleans Department of Public Works (DPW) is increasingly using trenchless rehabilitation methods to repair aging water and sewer lines, aiming to minimize neighborhood disruption and speed up infrastructure work across the city.
The approach, known as trenchless pipe rehabilitation, allows crews to repair underground pipes through small access points rather than digging large trenches. This limits the need for extensive excavation and helps avoid damaging tree roots, utilities, and other nearby infrastructure.
DPW works with contractors and the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) to determine when trenchless methods make the most sense based on pipe condition, location, and surrounding environment.
When trenchless technology is used, residents typically see fewer impacts to daily life:
- Less disruption to streets, sidewalks, and yards
- Faster construction timelines compared with open-trench replacement
- Reduced noise, dust, and right-of-way closures
“While not every project can use trenchless technology, it is one of the ways DPW is working to modernize New Orleans’ infrastructure while keeping neighborhoods open, safe, and connected,” the department stated.
City officials said the technique will remain a key part of upcoming rehabilitation projects, particularly where traditional replacement methods would cause significant disturbance or require deep excavation.
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