IMPORTANT UPDATES - City of Haverhill - 42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
UPDATE: July 8, 2026
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
Response Update – July 8, 2026
The last report was issued July 7, 2026
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, during a torrential rainstorm, the City experienced two failures of the 42-inch sewer force main that conveys most of the City's wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant. The pipe failure resulted in untreated wastewater being discharged into the Merrimack River.
On July 1, the City stopped the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River and placed a temporary bypass pumping system into operation. Wastewater is now being conveyed through the temporary bypass system to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment.
The temporary bypass system is fully operational and consists of five pumps and two 24-inch HDPE bypass pipelines capable of conveying up to 30 million gallons per day. The bypass will remain in service throughout the duration of the permanent force main repairs.
With the emergency bypass now complete, the City's efforts have transitioned to the permanent repair of the damaged force main. Current work is focused on excavating the two break locations, excavating two locations for inspection access, evaluating the condition of the force main, and completing the engineering necessary to permanently restore this critical infrastructure.
Below is a summary of ongoing activities.
Coordination meetings are held daily. The City's emergency response is being coordinated by city personnel with assistance from Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce.
Xylem – Temporary Bypass System
The temporary bypass system is fully operational and will remain in service throughout the duration of the permanent force main repairs.
Current activities include:
-
The bypass system continues to convey all wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant, eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River.
-
The system remains fully operational and is capable of handling both dry weather and up to 30 MGD of wet weather flows.
-
Xylem personnel remain on site to monitor system performance, provide maintenance, and respond to any operational issues throughout the duration of the bypass operation.
-
Met with Xylem today to review operation of the bypass system during the rain event yesterday. Everything worked as intended. Four pumps ran and pumped up to 28 mgd, and no CSOs. Rain gage at the plant recorded 1” of rain.
DeFelice Corporation – Construction and Repairs
With the temporary bypass system now fully operational, DeFelice has transitioned from bypass installation to permanent repair activities. Current activities include:
-
Dewatered, excavated, and exposed the damaged sections of the 42-inch force main. Stabilized the trenches and cut the top of the pipe for inspection access.
-
Continued excavation of the test pit near the pumping station for inspection access. Excavated additional access point near treatment plant for CCTV inspection.
-
Supporting excavation activities, including trench stabilization, dewatering, and site access.
-
Coordinating with Wright-Pierce and City staff to evaluate the condition of the damaged pipe as it is uncovered.
Wright-Pierce – Engineering Support
Wright-Pierce continues to provide engineering support throughout the emergency response, including:
-
Evaluating the condition of the force main and repair options.
-
Assisting with planning and oversight of the CCTV inspection.
-
Reviewing as-built drawings and available construction records.
-
Obtaining and reviewing available pipe manufacturer information and installation details.
-
Evaluating repair alternatives and providing engineering recommendations for permanent repairs. This includes more extensive repair options in the event that the pipe investigation identifies additional issues with the force main.
-
Evaluating a structural liner for the entire length of the force main.
-
Evaluating alternative pipe route.
Force Main Evaluation
Once excavation of the damaged sections has been completed, the City will conduct a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the remaining force main. Wright-Pierce is also evaluating additional technologies to assess the integrity of the pipeline and determine whether any additional defects or deterioration exist beyond the two known break locations.
System Status
The temporary bypass system remains fully operational and continues to convey all wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant. The discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River ceased on July 1, 2026, and has not resumed.
The bypass system will remain in operation until permanent repairs to the 42-inch force main have been completed, tested, and placed back into service.
Sewer service continues without interruption to Haverhill residents and businesses.
The City's drinking water system remains completely separate from the wastewater system and continues to provide safe drinking water.
UPDATE: July 6, 2026 at 4:50 PM
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
Response Update – July 6, 2026 4:30 p.m.
The last report was issued July 6, 2026 at 11 a.m.
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 27, during a torrential rainstorm, the City experienced two failures of the 42 inch sewer force main that conveys most of the City's wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The initial break adjacent to the pumping station resulted in untreated wastewater being discharged into the Merrimack River. During the City's investigation, a second break was identified farther downstream on the same force main, requiring a more extensive repair effort.
On July 1, the City successfully placed a temporary bypass pumping system into operation and shut down the South Mill Street Pumping Station pumps, stopping the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River. Wastewater is now being conveyed through the temporary bypass system to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment.
The temporary bypass system is fully operational and consists of five pumps and two 24-inch HDPE bypass pipelines capable of conveying up to 30 million gallons per day. The bypass will remain in service throughout the duration of the permanent force main repairs.
With the emergency bypass now complete, the City's efforts have transitioned from emergency response to permanent repair of the damaged force main. Current work is focused on excavating the two break locations, evaluating the condition of the force main, and completing the engineering necessary to permanently restore this critical infrastructure.
Below is a summary of ongoing activities.
Coordination meetings are held daily. The City's emergency response is being coordinated by city personnel with assistance from Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce.
Xylem – Temporary Bypass System
The temporary bypass system is fully operational and will remain in service throughout the duration of the permanent force main repairs.
Current activities include:
-
The temporary bypass system consists of five pumps and two 24-inch HDPE bypass pipelines capable of conveying up to 30 million gallons per day (MGD).
-
The bypass system continues to convey all wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant, eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River.
-
The system remains fully operational and is capable of handling both dry weather and up to 30 MGD of wet weather flows.
-
Xylem personnel remain on site to monitor system performance, provide maintenance, and respond to any operational issues throughout the duration of the bypass operation.
DeFelice Corporation – Construction and Repairs
With the temporary bypass system now fully operational, DeFelice has transitioned from bypass installation to permanent repair activities.
Current activities include:
-
Excavation of both force main break locations began today.
-
Continuing excavation to fully expose the damaged sections of the 42-inch force main.
-
Supporting excavation activities, including trench stabilization, dewatering, and site access.
-
Coordinating with Wright-Pierce and City staff to evaluate the condition of the damaged pipe as it is uncovered.
Wright-Pierce – Engineering Support
Wright-Pierce continues to provide engineering support throughout the emergency response, including:
-
Evaluating the condition of the force main and repair options.
-
Assisting with planning and oversight of the CCTV inspection.
-
Reviewing as-built drawings and available construction records.
-
Obtaining and reviewing available pipe manufacturer information and installation details.
-
Evaluating repair alternatives and providing engineering recommendations for permanent repairs. This includes more extensive repair options in the event that the pipe investigation identifies additional issues with the force main.
-
Evaluating a structural liner for the entire length of the force main.
-
Evaluating alternative pipe route.
Force Main Evaluation
The temporary bypass system will remain in operation throughout the permanent repair process.
Once excavation of the damaged sections has been completed, the City will conduct a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the remaining force main. Wright-Pierce is also evaluating additional technologies to assess the integrity of the pipeline and determine whether any additional defects or deterioration exist beyond the two known break locations.
System Status
The temporary bypass system remains fully operational and continues to convey all wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant. The discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River ceased on July 1, 2026, and has not resumed.
The bypass system will remain in operation until permanent repairs to the 42-inch force main have been completed, tested, and placed back into service.
Sewer service continues without interruption to Haverhill residents and businesses.
The City's drinking water system remains completely separate from the wastewater system and continues to provide safe drinking water.
UPDATE: July 6, 2026
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
Response Update – July 6, 2026
The last report was issued July 3, 2026.
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, during a torrential rainstorm, the City experienced a break in a 42-inch sewer force main near the South Mill Street Pumping Station.
This force main transports most of the City’s wastewater from the main pumping station to the wastewater treatment plant. During the storm, exceptionally heavy rainfall caused wastewater flows to increase rapidly, placing significantly greater demand on this critical pipeline.
Because of the break located adjacent to the South Mill Street Pumping Station, all wastewater arriving at the pumping station is currently being discharged via the break into the Merrimack River downstream of downtown Haverhill instead of being conveyed to the wastewater treatment plant.
At approximately 10:30 a.m. July 1, City personnel shut down the pumps at the South Mill Street Pumping Station, stopping the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River. Wastewater is being conveyed through the temporary bypass system to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment. At this time, five pumps and two 24-inch pipelines are operational. One pump easily handles the dry weather sewage flow. The bypass system is ready to pump up to 30 MGD.
Below is a summary of ongoing activities.
Coordination meetings are held daily. The City's emergency response is being coordinated by city personnel with assistance from Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce.
Xylem – Temporary Bypass System
Installation of the temporary bypass system continued throughout the day. Current activities include:
-
The second bypass line connections at the plant are complete. Friday night they finished the last weld on the second 24 inch bypass line. The two saddle taps and the air vents were installed.
-
Crews finished the connections to the three pumps that will draw from the second wet well chamber.
-
Early Saturday morning the remaining pumps and second bypass line were tested. One leak on had to be cut out and replaced. This was completed early Saturday morning. Since then the entire bypass system has been operational.
-
Groveland force main is connected and online.
DeFelice Corporation – Construction and Repairs
DeFelice continues to provide construction support for the emergency response. Current activities
include:
-
Continued assisting Xylem with placement and installation of the second bypass piping and pumps.
-
Preparing for excavation and permanent repairs once the bypass system is operational and the damaged force main has been removed from service.
-
Six-inch bypass pumps have been installed within the gravity sewer near the main entrance to the pumping station. This pump was relocated to the manhole upstream of the wet well to pump down the wet well level.
-
Installation of erosion controls from yesterday’s walk-through with conservation has been completed with straw waddles, and the straw netting roll on both slopes over the stream next to the treatment plant.
Wright-Pierce – Engineering Support
Wright-Pierce is providing technical engineering support throughout the emergency response, including:
-
Evaluating the condition of the force main and repair options.
-
Assisting with planning and oversight of the CCTV inspection.
-
Reviewing as-built drawings and available construction records.
-
Obtaining and reviewing available pipe manufacturer information and installation details.
-
Evaluating repair alternatives and providing engineering recommendations for permanent repairs. This includes more extensive repair options in the event that the pipe investigation identifies additional issues with the force main.
-
Evaluating a structural liner for the entire length of the force main.
-
Evaluating alternative pipe route.
Force Main Evaluation
After the temporary bypass system is operational, the City will conduct a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the entire force main before permanent repairs are completed. Wright Pierce is also evaluating other technologies for assessing the integrity of the force main. The inspection will evaluate the condition of the remaining pipeline and determine whether any additional defects or deterioration exist beyond the two known break locations.
System Status
Currently dry weather wastewater flows are being conveyed through the temporary bypass system to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment.
Construction of the second temporary bypass pipeline and the remaining bypass pumps is complete. The full bypass system will provide approximately 30 million gallons per day of pumping capacity, allowing the City to safely handle wet weather flows while permanent repairs to the damaged 42-inch force main are completed.
The South Mill Street Pumping Station and the City's wastewater collection system remain fully operational. Sewer service continues without interruption to residents and businesses.
The City's drinking water system remains completely separate from the wastewater system and continues to provide safe drinking water.
UPDATE: July 2, 2026
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
Response Update – July 2, 2026
The last report was issued July 1, 2026.
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, during a torrential rainstorm, the City experienced a break in a 42-inch sewer force main near the South Mill Street Pumping Station.
This force main transports most of the City’s wastewater from the main pumping station to the wastewater treatment plant. During the storm, exceptionally heavy rainfall caused wastewater flows to increase rapidly, placing significantly greater demand on this critical pipeline.
Because of the break located adjacent to the South Mill Street Pumping Station, all wastewater arriving at the pumping station is currently being discharged via the break into the Merrimack River downstream of downtown Haverhill instead of being conveyed to the wastewater treatment plant.
At approximately 10:30 a.m. yesterday, July 1, City personnel shut down the pumps at the South Mill Street Pumping Station, stopping the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River. Wastewater is now being conveyed through the temporary bypass system to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment.
Below is a summary of ongoing activities.
Coordination meetings are held daily. The City's emergency response is being coordinated by city personnel with assistance from Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce.
Xylem – Temporary Bypass System
Installation of the temporary bypass system continued throughout the day. Current activities include:
-
Two bypass pumps and one force main has been operational since yesterday. Contractor has been working on fine tuning the pump controls for automatic operation and pump sequencing.
-
Last truck load of pipe arrived this afternoon.
-
Second bypass line connections at the plant are complete. Remainder of the second bypass line from the plant to the pumping station is expected to be complete by Friday morning.
-
Crews will continue installing the remaining three pumps that will draw from the second wet well chamber and connect to the second bypoass line. This is expected to be complete by late Friday
night. When complete testing and startup of the remaining pumps and second bypass line will begin.
-
Groveland force amin is connected and online.
-
Installation activities continue 24 hours per day until the entire bypass system is operational.
DeFelice Corporation – Construction and Repairs
DeFelice continues to provide construction support for the emergency response. Current activities
include:
-
Continued assisting Xylem with placement and installation of the second bypass piping and pumps.
-
Preparing for excavation and permanent repairs once the bypass system is operational and the damaged force main has been removed from service.
-
Six-inch bypass pumps have been installed within the gravity sewer near the main entrance to the pumping station. These pumps had not yet been energized as of this report.
-
Installation of erosion controls from yesterday’s walk-through with conservation has been completed with straw waddles, and the straw Netting roll on both slopes over the stream next to the treatment plant.
Wright-Pierce – Engineering Support
Wright-Pierce is providing technical engineering support throughout the emergency response, including:
-
Evaluating the condition of the force main and repair options.
-
Assisting with planning and oversight of the CCTV inspection.
-
Reviewing as-built drawings and available construction records.
-
Obtaining and reviewing available pipe manufacturer information and installation details.
-
Evaluating repair alternatives and providing engineering recommendations for permanent repairs. This includes more extensive repair options in the event that the pipe investigation identifies additional issues with the force main.
-
Evaluating a structural liner for the entire length of the force main.
Force Main Evaluation
After the temporary bypass system is operational, the City will conduct a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the entire force main before permanent repairs are completed. Wright Pierce is also evaluating other technologies for assessing the integrity of the force main. The inspection will evaluate the condition of the remaining pipeline and determine whether any additional defects or deterioration exist beyond the two known break locations.
System Status
Currently dry weather wastewater flows are being conveyed through the temporary bypass system to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment.
Construction will continue on the second temporary bypass pipeline and the remaining bypass pumps. Once complete, the full bypass system will provide approximately 30 million gallons per day of pumping capacity, allowing the City to safely handle wet weather flows while permanent repairs to the damaged 42-inch force main are completed.
The South Mill Street Pumping Station and the City's wastewater collection system remain fully operational. Sewer service continues without interruption to residents and businesses.
The City's drinking water system remains completely separate from the wastewater system and continues to provide safe drinking water.
City personnel, contractors, consulting engineers, and utility partners continue working around the clock to complete the bypass system and begin permanent repairs to the damaged force main.
This revision highlights the most important milestone of the entire response—the discharge has stopped.
July 1, 2026 - Statement from Mayor Barrett
Mayor Barrett is pleased to announce that, through the tireless efforts of the City's wastewater staff and contractors Xylem, DeFelice Corp. and Wright-Pierce, the sanitary sewer overflow into the Merrimack River has ceased.
This is a major milestone in the emergency response to this unprecedented crisis, and the Mayor is grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement from Massachusetts and beyond.
Mayor Barrett wishes to thank Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll for their unflagging dedication to Haverhill and commitment of any and all resources from various state agencies to ensure a prompt and successful resolution. The City is also fortunate to have the tireless advocacy of its state delegation in Senator Barry Finegold, Senator Pavel Payano, Representative Andy Vargas and Representative Ryan Hamilton as well as our federal partners Senator Ed Markey, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congresswoman Lori Trahan.
UPDATE: July 1, 2026
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
The emergency discharge of wastewater into the Merrimack River has ended following the successful installation of a temporary bypass system at the City's South Mill Street Pumping Station.
The discharge began after a 42-inch sewer force main failed during the torrential rainstorm on the evening of June 27. The force main transports most of Haverhill's wastewater from the South Mill Street Pumping Station to the City's wastewater treatment plant. During the emergency response, crews discovered a second break in the force main, requiring a more extensive repair effort.
Emergency bypass pumping contractors have now successfully completed installation of the first 24-inch temporary bypass pipeline, allowing wastewater to once again be conveyed from the South to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant. As a result, the sanitary sewer overflow into the Merrimack River has ceased, and current dry weather wastewater flows are now being fully conveyed to and treated at the wastewater treatment plant.
This is a major milestone in the emergency response. Stopping the discharge into the Merrimack River has been our highest priority since this incident began. Contractors and engineers have worked around the clock over the past several days to make this happen.
The City continues to work with Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce to complete the emergency response. Construction is continuing on a second temporary 24-inch bypass pipeline, which will increase the temporary bypass capacity to approximately 30 million gallons per day. Once completed, the second bypass line will provide sufficient capacity to convey much of the wet weather flows while permanent repairs to the damaged force main are completed.
With the first bypass line now operational, crews will continue preparing for permanent repairs to the damaged 42-inch force main. Additional work includes continued bypass construction, excavation at the break locations, engineering evaluation of the damaged pipeline, and a comprehensive inspection of the force main before permanent repairs are finalized.
The City has coordinated with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and local Health Department and Conservation officials throughout the response.
Although the discharge into the Merrimack River has ended, residents and recreational users are advised to avoid contact with the Merrimack River in the vicinity of Haverhill and downstream for at least the next 48 hours, or until otherwise recommended by public health officials, due to the potential presence of elevated bacteria and other pollutants associated with the recent sanitary sewer overflow.
Sewer service to residents and businesses has remained fully operational throughout the emergency response, and the City's drinking water system has not been affected.
The City will continue to provide updates as work progresses toward completing the bypass system and permanently repairing the force main.
UPDATE: June 30, 2026
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
Response Update – June 30, 2026
The last report was issued June 29, 2026.
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, during a torrential rainstorm, the City experienced a break in a 42-inch sewer force main near the South Mill Street Pumping Station.
This force main transports most of the City’s wastewater from the main pumping station to the wastewater treatment plant. During the storm, exceptionally heavy rainfall caused wastewater flows to increase rapidly, placing significantly greater demand on this critical pipeline.
Because of the break located adjacent to the South Mill Street Pumping Station, all wastewater arriving at the pumping station is currently being discharged via the break into the Merrimack River downstream of downtown Haverhill instead of being conveyed to the wastewater treatment plant.
Below is a summary of ongoing activities.
Coordination meetings are held daily.
The City's emergency response is being coordinated by city personnel with assistance from Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce.
Xylem – Temporary Bypass System
The City retained Xylem immediately following the force main failure to design and install a temporary bypass pumping system that will convey wastewater around the damaged sections of the force main. Xylem arrived in Haverhill at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 27 and has completed its evaluation of the site.
Current activities include:
-
Delivery of four pumps occurred overnight. Offloaded and are currently being placed, along with fabrication of hard suction and discharge to the first pump.
-
Five fuel cubes were delivered overnight and offloaded.
-
HDPE pipe deliveries are continuing.
-
Pipe fusing and bypass installation is ongoing and will continue 24 hours a day until the bypass is operational. The first pipe is now below grade at the driveway to the treatment plant. Plates have been placed over the one pipe installed; still working on dragging the second pipe into position. The plan is to have this line operational to handle dry weather flows.
-
Delivery and installation of two of the five pumps is anticipated to begin late tonight. These two pumps and one bypass line will handle dry weather sewage flows to stop the flow of sewage to the river.
-
Another crew is still working at the pump station, connecting bypass pumps to force main and building suction piping.We are cautiously optimistic that the two pumps and one line will be operation late Wednesday night.
-
Installation of the second bypass line and remainder of the pumps will begin after that and
complete by Sunday.
Once the bypass is operational, all wastewater flow will be diverted around the damaged sections of the force main, eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River.
DeFelice Corporation – Construction and Repairs
DeFelice Corporation mobilized personnel and equipment to the site early Saturday morning and is actively supporting the emergency response.
Current activities include:
-
Assisting Xylem with assembly and placement of the temporary bypass lines.
-
Providing heavy equipment, including large excavators and front-end loaders, to load and position the HDPE bypass piping for fusing and final placement.
-
Preparing to excavate both break locations once the bypass system is operational and the force main has been taken out of service.
-
11 Steel plates are now in use in various locations for areas that vehicles need to pass.
-
Crew is currently working on fusing and getting the piping into headwork/grit chamber at the wastewater plant. This is the final discharge location.
-
Coordinating construction activities to safely complete the permanent repairs as quickly as possible.
-
Prepared connections to bypass the Groveland force main on the treatment plant site.
Wright-Pierce – Engineering Support
Wright-Pierce is providing technical engineering support throughout the emergency response, including:
-
Evaluating the condition of the force main and repair options.
-
Assisting with planning and oversight of the CCTV inspection.
-
Reviewing as-built drawings and available construction records.
-
Obtaining and reviewing available pipe manufacturer information and installation details.
-
Evaluating repair alternatives and providing engineering recommendations for permanent repairs. This includes more extensive repair options in the event that the pipe investigation identifies additional issues with the force main.
-
Evaluating a structural liner for the entire length of the force main.
Force Main Evaluation
After the temporary bypass system is operational, the City will conduct a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the entire force main before permanent repairs are completed. Wright Pierce is also evaluating other technologies for assessing the integrity of the force main. The inspection will evaluate the condition of the remaining pipeline and determine whether any additional defects or deterioration exist beyond the two known break locations.
System Status
The South Mill Street Pumping Station and the City's wastewater collection system remain fully operational. There are no anticipated interruptions to sewer service for residents or businesses during bypass installation or subsequent repairs.
The City's drinking water system remains completely separate from the wastewater system and has not been affected. Drinking water continues to be safe for all residents and businesses.
City personnel, contractors, and consulting engineers will continue working around the clock until the temporary bypass is operational. The City's priorities remain protecting public health, eliminating the discharge to the Merrimack River, maintaining uninterrupted sewer service, and restoring this critical infrastructure as quickly and safely as possible.
UPDATE: Monday, June 29, 2026 at 5:50 PM
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
Response Update – June 29, 2026
The last report was issued June 28, 2026.
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 27, during a torrential rainstorm, the City experienced a break in a 42-inch sewer force main near the South Mill Street Pumping Station.
This force main transports most of the City’s wastewater from the main pumping station to the wastewater treatment plant. During the storm, exceptionally heavy rainfall caused wastewater flows to increase rapidly, placing greater demand on this critical pipeline.
Because of the break located adjacent to the South Mill Street Pumping Station, all wastewater arriving at the pumping station is currently being discharged via the break into the Merrimack River downstream of downtown Haverhill instead of being conveyed to the wastewater treatment plant.
Below is a summary of ongoing activities.
Coordination meetings are held daily.
The City's emergency response is being coordinated by city personnel with assistance from Xylem, DeFelice Corporation, and Wright-Pierce.
Xylem – Temporary Bypass System
The City retained Xylem immediately following the force main failure to design and install a temporary bypass pumping system that will convey wastewater around the damaged sections of the force main. Xylem arrived in Haverhill at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 27 and has completed its evaluation of the site.
Current activities include:
-
HDPE pipe deliveries are continuing.
-
Pipe fusing and bypass installation is ongoing and will continue 24 hours a day until the bypass is operational. As of 3 pm today, one 24-inch bypass is laid out in 500 to 700 foot sections from the pumping station to the plant. Fusing together of these sections began this afternoon. The plan is to have this line operational to handle dry weather flows.
-
Delivery and installation of two of the five pumps is anticipated to begin late tonight. These two pumps and one bypass line will handle dry weather sewage flows to stop the flow of sewage to the river.
-
We are cautiously optimistic that the two pumps and one line will be operation late Wednesday night.
-
Installation of the second bypass line and remainder of the pumps will begin after that and complete by Sunday.
Once the bypass is operational, all wastewater flow will be diverted around the damaged sections of the force main, eliminating the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Merrimack River.
DeFelice Corporation – Construction and Repairs
DeFelice Corporation mobilized personnel and equipment to the site early Saturday morning and is actively supporting the emergency response.
Current activities include:
-
Assisting Xylem with assembly and placement of the temporary bypass lines.
-
Providing heavy equipment, including large excavators and front-end loaders, to load and position the HDPE bypass piping for fusing and final placement.
-
Completed clearing the pathway for the temporary bypass lines.
-
Preparing to excavate both break locations once the bypass system is operational and the force main has been taken out of service.
-
Coordinating construction activities to safely complete the permanent repairs as quickly as possible.
-
Prepared connections to bypass the Groveland force main on the treatment plant site.
Wright-Pierce – Engineering Support
Wright-Pierce is providing technical engineering support throughout the emergency response, including:
-
Evaluating the condition of the force main and repair options.
-
Assisting with planning and oversight of the CCTV inspection.
-
Reviewing as-built drawings and available construction records.
-
Obtaining and reviewing available pipe manufacturer information and installation details.
-
Evaluating repair alternatives and providing engineering recommendations for permanent repairs.
This includes more extensive repair options in the event that the pipe investigation identifies additional issues with the force main.
-
Evaluating a structural liner for the entire length of the force main.
Force Main Evaluation
After the temporary bypass system is operational, the City will conduct a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the entire force main before permanent repairs are completed. Wright Pierce is also evaluating other technolgies for assessing the integrity of the force main. The inspection will evaluate the condition of the remaining pipeline and determine whether any additional defects or deterioration exist beyond the two known break locations.
System Status
The South Mill Street Pumping Station and the City's wastewater collection system remain fully operational. There are no anticipated interruptions to sewer service for residents or businesses during bypass installation or subsequent repairs.
The City's drinking water system remains completely separate from the wastewater system and has not been affected. Drinking water continues to be safe for all residents and businesses.
City personnel, contractors, and consulting engineers will continue working around the clock until the temporary bypass is operational. The City's priorities remain protecting public health, eliminating the discharge to the Merrimack River, maintaining uninterrupted sewer service, and restoring this critical infrastructure as quickly and safely as possible.
Below are photos of the bypass line.
UPDATE: Monday, June 29, 2026
City of Haverhill Department of Public Works – Wastewater Division
The City of Haverhill continues to respond to the ongoing sanitary sewer overflow resulting from the force main failure associated with the South Mill Street Pump Station.
The City currently estimates that approximately 8 million gallons of wastewater per day are entering the Merrimack River as a result of the force main failure. This estimate is based on the average daily flow through the pump station over the past month and will continue to be refined as response efforts progress.
Emergency bypass pumping contractors remain on site and continue flow restoration efforts. Crews are actively fusing sections of bypass pipe and installing the temporary pipeline from the South Mill Street Pump Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Installation of the bypass system presents several logistical challenges, including clearing a path for the temporary pipeline and crossing a brook along the route. An excavation contractor is working in coordination with the bypass pumping contractor to clear the pipeline corridor, facilitate pipe installation, offload pumps and equipment, and support ongoing construction activities.
Construction and bypass installation crews will be working 24 hours a day until the temporary bypass system is fully operational and wastewater conveyance to the treatment plant has been restored.
The City continues to coordinate closely with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and other regulatory partners throughout the response. Every effort is being made to minimize environmental impacts and restore normal wastewater operations as safely and quickly as possible.
Residents and recreational users are advised to continue avoiding contact with the Merrimack River in the vicinity of Haverhill and downstream until further notice due to the potential presence of elevated bacteria and other pollutants.
The City will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available.
For additional information, please contact:
City of Haverhill Department of Public Works – Wastewater Division
978-374-2382
UPDATE: Sunday, June 28, 2026
City of Haverhill Department of Public Works – Wastewater Division
The City of Haverhill continues to respond to the ongoing sanitary sewer overflow resulting from the force main failure associated with the South Mill Street Pump Station.
The City currently estimates that approximately 8 million gallons of wastewater per day are entering the Merrimack River as a result of the force main failure. This estimate is based on the average daily flow through the pump station over the past month and will continue to be refined as response efforts progress.
Emergency bypass pumping contractors remain on site and continue mobilization efforts. The first 2,000 feet of HDPE bypass pipe has been delivered to the site, with additional materials expected as construction progresses. Crews are actively fusing sections of bypass pipe and installing the temporary pipeline from the South Mill Street Pump Station to the Haverhill Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Installation of the bypass system presents several logistical challenges, including clearing a path for the temporary pipeline and crossing a brook along the route. An excavation contractor is working in coordination with the bypass pumping contractor to clear the pipeline corridor, facilitate pipe installation, offload pumps and equipment, and support ongoing construction activities.
Construction and bypass installation crews will be working 24 hours a day until the temporary bypass system is fully operational and wastewater conveyance to the treatment plant has been restored.
The City continues to coordinate closely with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and other regulatory partners throughout the response. Every effort is being made to minimize environmental impacts and restore normal wastewater operations as safely and quickly as possible.
Residents and recreational users are advised to continue avoiding contact with the Merrimack River in the vicinity of Haverhill and downstream until further notice due to the potential presence of elevated bacteria and other pollutants.
The City will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available.
For additional information, please contact:
City of Haverhill Department of Public Works – Wastewater Division
978-374-2382
42-Inch Sewer Force Main Break
June 27, 2026
Overview
Last night at approximately 9:00 p.m., during the torrential rainstorm, the City experienced a break in a
42-inch sewer force main near the City's main pumping station.
This force main transports wastewater from the main pumping station to the wastewater treatment plant.
During the storm, exceptionally heavy rainfall caused wastewater flows to increase rapidly, placing
significantly greater demand on this critical pipeline.
Wastewater personnel responded immediately and have been working continuously since last night. As
we were investigating the damage today, we discovered a second break on the force main. That discovery
has expanded the repair to a second area and requires additional assessment to determine needed repairs.
The City's priorities are to protect public health, stop the discharge into the Merrimack River as quickly as
possible, maintain sewer service to the community, and complete a safe and permanent repair.
What Happened
The City's wastewater collection system gathers wastewater from homes and businesses and conveys it to
the main pumping station. From there, wastewater is pumped under pressure through the 42-inch force
main to the wastewater treatment plant.
Unlike most sewer pipes that rely on gravity, a force main is a pressurized pipeline. When it fails,
wastewater escapes before it reaches the treatment plant.
During last night's storm, wastewater flows increased dramatically because of the intense rainfall. While
the pumping station continued operating normally, the force main failed near the pumping station.
Crews initially identified one break and immediately began contacting contractors to assess the damage.As investigation continued today, a second break on the same force main was discovered. The second
break was not visible initially and was only identified after walking the force main line.
The discovery of the second break indicates that the damaged area is larger than originally believed. It
does not mean the entire pipeline has failed, but it does require more extensive repair. Before repairs can
begin, crews must fully evaluate the damaged section to ensure all affected areas are repaired before the
force main is returned to service.
Current Conditions
Because of the two breaks, untreated wastewater is being discharged into the Merrimack River
downstream of the Haverhill’s downtown area instead of reaching the wastewater treatment plant.
The City's sewer system remains fully operational. Residents and businesses continue to have normal
sewer service, and there is no interruption anticipated at this time.
The City's drinking water system is completely separate from the wastewater system and has not been
affected. Drinking water remains safe for all residents and businesses.
The City has notified the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and all other required regulatory agencies in accordance with
state and federal requirements.
Response Efforts
The City's immediate objective is to stop the discharge into the Merrimack River while maintaining sewer
service throughout the community. Because this is one of the City's largest and most critical wastewater
pipelines, the repair must be completed carefully and correctly. Simply shutting down the pumping station
is not an option because it serves thousands of homes and businesses. Doing so would potentially cause
wastewater to back up into the collection system, potentially resulting in sewer backups and additional
overflows elsewhere in the City.
The discovery of the second break requires crews to evaluate a larger repair area than originally
anticipated. While this adds complexity to the repair, it is important that all damaged sections are
identified and repaired before the pipeline is returned to service. Completing a thorough repair now will
reduce the risk of another failure after the line is placed back into operation.
Investigation
At this time, the exact cause of the failures remains under investigation. The breaks occurred during a
period of exceptionally heavy rainfall and unusually high wastewater flows. Once repairs are complete,
the City will conduct an evaluation of the pipeline to determine the cause of the failures and identify any
underlying factors that may have contributed.
The City will also be calculating the volume of wastewater discharged and will provide that information
to regulatory agencies as required.
Public Information
Residents and businesses do not need to take any action and may continue using their water and sewer
service normally.
Out of an abundance of caution, the public should avoid contact with the Merrimack River in the
immediate vicinity and downstream of the discharge until repairs have been completed and the discharge
has stopped.
Our Department of Public Works personnel, engineers, and contractors have been working continuously
since the break occurred. Their focus is protecting public health, stopping the discharge into the
Merrimack River as quickly as possible, maintaining sewer service for the community, and restoring this
critical infrastructure safely and permanently.
The City understands the public's concern and is committed to keeping residents informed as repairs
progress and additional information becomes available.