Pennsylvania American Water has announced a $1.6 million dollar project to replace more than 1.2 miles of water main in Butler, with work set to begin as soon as Monday, March 17.

The work will focus on three areas: Brown Avenue from Center Avenue to the 400 block of Brown Avenue, Delwood Road in the area of Oxcart Lane and Whitestown Road between its 200 and 300 blocks.

The project is intended to address aging infrastructure along Brown Avenue and to prevent future water main breaks along Delwood and Whitestown Roads, which have seen numerous breaks recently, according to Brent Robinson, manager of external affairs for the company.

A news release from the company indicates the project will also improve reliability for customers, reduce service disruptions and increase water flows for firefighting.

Crews are expected to work on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. with traffic restrictions in place. Work in these areas could be seen anytime between Monday and early fall.

During that time, contractor Mealy Excavating and Construction Inc. is expected to install new eight and 12-inch ductile iron pipe, replacing existing water mains.

Robinson said that crews are expected to work throughout the summer, with a tentative end for late summer or early fall. Then, the road will be paved and open shortly afterward.

Customers might experience temporary service interruptions, discolored water and lower than normal water pressure during the construction period, according to the release.

For more information regarding the project, customers can contact PA American Water’s customer service center at 1-800-565-7292.