Lynn Completes $120M West Lynn Sewer Project

Major infrastructure upgrade reduces combined sewer overflows and improves water quality in Saugus River and Lynn Harbor.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:24pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished, chrome-plated storm drain grate and a coiled length of heavy-duty industrial pipe, arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background to symbolize the abstract concepts of modern water infrastructure and environmental stewardship.The successful completion of the $120 million West Lynn Sewer Separation Project represents a major milestone in the city's efforts to modernize its critical water infrastructure and improve environmental outcomes.Lynn Today

The Lynn Water & Sewer Commission (LWSC) has announced the successful completion of the first phase of its Facilities Plan, the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project. This $120 million project, funded through Clean Water State Revolving Fund loans, separated approximately 260 acres of combined sewer area, reducing combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and strengthening the system's resiliency during severe weather events.

Why it matters

The West Lynn Sewer Separation Project is a critical part of Lynn's long-term effort to modernize its wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and improve water quality in the Saugus River and Lynn Harbor. The project was initiated in response to a consent decree and will help the city meet environmental regulations and protect the local ecosystem.

The details

The project included the construction of more than 26,000 linear feet of new storm drain infrastructure, including a 72-inch diameter trunk drain installed up to 20 feet below grade. It also required the construction of a 90-million-gallon-per-day stormwater pump station, a 54-inch force main, and a new ocean outfall to Lynn Harbor. One of the most complex elements was the trenchless construction beneath the Lynnway (Route 1A) and other active transportation and utility corridors.

  • The West Lynn Sewer Separation Project was initiated more than seven years ago.
  • Construction on the project began in 2019 and was completed in April 2026.

The players

Lynn Water & Sewer Commission (LWSC)

The municipal agency responsible for managing Lynn's wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and overseeing the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project.

Stantec

The engineering consulting firm that provided leadership in planning, design, regulatory coordination, and construction support throughout the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project.

P Gioioso & Sons

The contractor responsible for the construction work on the neighborhood streets as part of the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project.

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What they’re saying

“The patience shown by the people who live and work in this neighborhood made this project possible. We know the construction was disruptive at times, and we are deeply grateful for the understanding and resilience of the community.”

— P Gioioso & Sons, Contractor

What’s next

LWSC will continue advancing the remaining phases of CSO projects, building on lessons learned to deliver future improvements as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

The takeaway

The successful completion of the West Lynn Sewer Separation Project represents a major milestone in Lynn's efforts to modernize its critical water infrastructure and improve environmental outcomes. The project's complex engineering and construction required close collaboration with the local community, who showed remarkable patience and resilience throughout the process.