Revitalizing Oak Harbor

In a significant leap towards modern infrastructure, the Church Street Combined Sewer Separation Project revitalized Oak Harbor, Ohio, showcasing a successful collaboration between local leaders and engineering experts. The multi-million-dollar initiative was not just about pipes and drains; it was a comprehensive effort to tackle age-old challenges, particularly stormwater management and sewer overflow issues that had plagued the village for decades.

The Challenge

Oak Harbor’s combined sewer system, with roots dating back to the 1880s, was not equipped to handle the volumes of water generated during heavy storms. The antiquated system led to severe flooding and costly wastewater overflows, impacting residents’ quality of life.

With a mission to fundamentally transform the village’s sewer infrastructure, the Church Street Combined Sewer Separation Project aimed to separate the combined sanitary and storm sewer systems to alleviate chronic flooding and pollution.

Launched in July 2020 and completed in July 2021, the ambitious project was supported by more than $9 million in funding, primarily from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development program. With more than $4.1 million in grants and affordable loans, the financial backing demonstrated a commitment to creating a sustainable solution for Oak Harbor’s infrastructure challenges.

Engineering Excellence

Having originally hired Jones & Henry Engineers around 2014 to begin planning and addressing chronic local flooding and drainage issues, Oak Harbor officials chose the firm to serve as the primary design and engineering team for the Church Street project. Our team provided a steady hand in navigating the complex engineering designs, environmental reviews, and federal and state permitting processes necessary to bring the project to life.

The project featured extensive infrastructure enhancements, including the installation of more than 10,000 feet of new storm sewer pipes, ranging from 15 to 84 inches in size, designed to manage stormwater effectively. Additionally, nearly 9,451 feet of sanitary sewer systems were replaced, ensuring that the community benefits from reliable waste management.

But the improvements didn’t stop there; approximately 3,500 feet of 8-inch waterlines were also upgraded, drastically enhancing fire protection. The project culminated with surface improvements such as wider sidewalks, new curbs, and freshly paved streets. Those upgrades not only beautified the community but also greatly enhanced pedestrian safety.

Community Impact

Then Village Administrator Randy Genzman hailed the initiative as “the most aggressive stormwater separation project in the history of the village.” Indeed, the project not only addressed critical infrastructure needs but also reinforced the village’s commitment to adopting modern solutions that protect the environment and enhance community wellbeing.

As Oak Harbor continues to thrive, the Church Street Combined Sewer Separation Project stands as a testament to effective planning, community involvement, and engineering excellence. The successful completion of the project marked a new chapter for the village, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for its residents.

The Church Street project serves as a prime example of Jones & Henry Engineers’ extensive experience and expertise in infrastructure management. Our comprehensive understanding of engineering principles and innovative solutions played a pivotal role in transforming the village into a model of safety and resilience. The project reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence and our flexibility in adapting to the community’s ever-evolving needs.