Contractors will perform a controlled blast this week on UVA property north of Fontaine Avenue, as work continues on Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority replacement raw water line from the Ragged Mountain Reservoir to the Observatory Water Treatment Plant.
The blast is scheduled to occur on Thursday at 12 noon. The process involves drilling into rock and setting small charges. Heavy mats are laid across the surface to prevent loose debris from leaving the site.
Before each blast, a localized siren will go off to signal the impending detonation.
Each blast may generate a sound level up to 120 decibels and cause minor localized ground vibrations.
Due to Fontaine Avenue’s proximity to the blasting site, the road will close five minutes before the blast. It will reopen once the detonations are complete and safety personnel have issued the all-clear.
Temporary recreational trail closures will occur on the O-Hill Long Downhill, Fontaine Multi-Use Path and Gravel Doubletrack trails.
Night work
Starting the week of Sept. 8, RWSA’s contractor will begin work on crossing Fontaine Avenue. This will require night-time construction activities.
The 36-inch pipe will cross Fontaine Avenue between the 29 Bypass and Ray C. Hunt Drive. The work will occur between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m.. Through traffic is allowed during this period; however, lane closures are expected.
All lanes will reopen each morning and remain open throughout the day.
Construction has been coordinated with UVA to minimize potential impacts on staff and patients who work or receive care in the Fontaine Research Park.
The work is expected to continue through the end of October.
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Chris Graham
