The South Tahoe Public Utility District is rehabilitating approximately 8,000 linear feet of sewer mains in the Tahoe Keys neighborhood in 2026 as part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable sewer system that protects public health and Lake Tahoe.

Using a trenchless construction method called Ultraviolet (UV) Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP), crews will install a new synthetic liner inside the existing sewer pipe through existing manholes. This environmentally friendly approach extends the life of the sewer mains by 50 years or more while reducing impacts to the neighborhood.

Construction is expected to begin at the end of July and continue through November 2026. The total project cost is $1.1 million.

Why This Project?

The Tahoe Keys sewer system was originally constructed in the 1960s. Following extensive condition assessments completed in 2024 and 2025, the District identified approximately 8,000 feet of sewer mains that showed signs of corrosion and were most in need of rehabilitation.

Due to Tahoe Keys' high groundwater, trenchless rehabilitation is the most environmentally responsible and cost-effective solution.

Why UV Cured-in-Place Pipe?

UV Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) creates a new, corrosion-resistant pipe inside the existing sewer main without digging up the street.

Benefits include:

• Extends the life of sewer mains by 50 years or more
• Minimizes excavation and neighborhood disruption
• Shorter construction time than traditional trenching
• Lower construction costs
• UV curing reduces odors compared to steam-cured methods

What to Expect During Construction

Work will typically take place Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Before lining begins, crews will clean the sewer mains using specialized Vactor trucks. During construction, crews will work from existing manholes, which helps minimize excavation.

Residents may experience:

• Temporary lane closures or traffic delays
• Construction noise, dust, and vibration
• Temporary parking restrictions near work areas

Please follow all posted traffic controls and stay clear of construction zones for your safety.

Temporary Limited Water Use

If your property is connected to the sewer main being rehabilitated, the District will notify you before work begins.

During the pipe lining process, your connection to the sewer main will be temporarily unavailable while the liner cures. The pipe lining will be completed within one business day and your sewer service interruption will last up to 9 hours. To prevent wastewater from backing up into your home or business, limit water use during this time.

During the temporary service interruption:

• Avoid showers and baths.
• Do not run dishwashers or washing machines.
• Flush toilets only when necessary.
• Small amounts of water for handwashing or brushing your teeth are okay.

Once the liner has cured, crews will reopen each service connection, and normal sewer service will be restored.

Questions?

The District appreciates your patience as we invest in infrastructure that will provide reliable sewer service for decades to come while helping protect Lake Tahoe.

For questions, contact South Tahoe Public Utility District at (530) 544-6474.