Queens, NY, completes $106 million Phase 2 sewer upgrade in Maspeth

(UI) — The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) have completed a $106 million infrastructure project in Maspeth, Queens, marking the second phase of a three-part initiative to establish a new drainage network in central Queens.

Micro-tunneling techniques eliminated the need for disruptive open trench construction through a residential neighborhood. Here a crane prepares to lower segments of the new 96-inch diameter sewer down a shaft so they can be installed in the new tunnel below the street. (All images courtesy of New York's DEP & DDC)

This project upgraded over a mile of water mains and replaced smaller local combined and sanitary sewers.

To minimize construction impacts on local businesses, residents, and traffic, DDC successfully employed micro-tunneling technology throughout large parts of the project. This innovative approach contrasts with a previous $19.5 million project in 69th Street and Calamus Avenue, which created excessive noise and disruptions and had to be halted early.

The third phase is currently being designed by DDC, with construction expected to begin in mid-2026 and a budget of approximately $80 million. This phase will extend the new drainage system south to Juniper Boulevard South.

“This $106 million project is part of DEP’s commitment to building a new drainage network through Central Queens, which will alleviate the flooding caused by extreme weather,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “We will continue to partner with DDC and DOT to invest in infrastructure upgrades that create more resilient communities, allowing us to better manage stormwater and protect our residents from climate change.”

DDC Commissioner Thomas Foley emphasized the change in approach after the first project proved disruptive. “When the first project in this important new drainage system proved too disruptive to the community, DDC stopped work, changed its approach and used micro-tunneling instead, including in a very sensitive and busy area where crews tunneled under Queens Boulevard,” he said.

Overall, the project installed about 3,625 feet of new 96-inch diameter combined sewer, 900 feet of new box sewers up to 12 feet by 8 feet, and 300 feet of 84-inch HOBAS sewers. Additionally, approximately 1,300 feet of combined sewer were replaced, and 5,500 feet of water mains—some nearly 90 years old—were replaced with more durable ductile iron pipes.

A segment of the new 96-inch diameter sewer is seen at the bottom of a construction shaft before it’s put in place inside the new tunnel

Micro-tunneling proved particularly effective at the Queens Boulevard location, reducing construction time from several months to just one week, avoiding major disruptions. Local catch basins and fire hydrants were upgraded, and nearly 1.5 miles of local curbs and sidewalks were replaced. The project also added 47 ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps, 18 new trees, and a bike lane in the area.

Councilmember Robert F. Holden commented on the urgency of upgrading sewer infrastructure. “Thanks to the City for completing the second phase of this massive sewer project, and I look forward to the third and final phase being completed in the coming years to finally give residents some relief."

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. remarked, "The families of Maspeth deserve to live free from flooding every time it rains, and this critical project will go a long way toward protecting homes and businesses across this community."

Assemblymember Steven Raga added, “I am happy to see the completion of this infrastructure project here in Maspeth. This new drainage system and additional upgrades will better serve Queens residents.”

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