University Times

A Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority project to replace a 12-inch water main is closing sections of Bates Street between the Boulevard of the Allies and South Bouquet Street.

In response to a history of water line failures, the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) is replacing a 12-inch water main on Bates Street between the Boulevard of the Allies and South Bouquet Street.

Bates Street is closed between Zulema Street and McKee Place as phase 2 of the six-phase project continues.

The intersection of Bates Street and McKee Place is being maintained by a police officer during work hours and traffic on McKee Place is able to cross Bates Street.

Traffic on Coltart Street can cross Zulema Street and turn right on Bates to access the Boulevard of the Allies.

Each of the phases is expected to last six weeks. Phase 2, which began Aug. 8, is on track to finish on schedule sometime during the week of Sept. 12, according to PWSA spokesperson Melissa Rubin.

During phase 3, Bates Street will reopen from Zulema Street to McKee Place, but will be closed between McKee Place and Semple Street.

During the ensuing six weeks, the intersection at Semple and Bates will be maintained by a police officer during work hours.

Traffic on McKee Place will be able to turn right onto Bates Street and go down the Boulevard of the Allies, but traffic will not be able to turn left from McKee Place to Bates Street.

Details on subsequent phases of the project are expected to be released at the midpoint of the phase 3 work, Rubin said.

Final paving of the roadway will begin once all six phases are complete.

—Kimberly K. Barlow