A Mason Construction crane goes to work pulling up debris from the bottom of Lake Washington as part of the 2009-2010 Sewer Lake Line Project. Work on the project began today.

According to project manager Anne Tonella-Howe, the Mason Construction team is working to locate a storm drain off the North Mercer shoreline in order to verify that it does not come into conflict with the area’s main sewer line. The barge and its crane will be slowly moving its way north toward the Roanoke Inn, after which it will begin moving south toward Proctor’s Landing. Boaters are advised to take caution when riding near the construction area. The equipment will disappear at the end of the summer and return next June for phase two — installing sewers to connect shoreline pipes with the main line.

The Sewer Lake Line project is the most expensive in Island history, totaling $24.2 million. The monies come from a Public Works Trust Fund loan, city cash reserves, and a $477,000 federal grant. Construction will take place over this summer and the summer of 2010.

For questions call Anne Tonellla-Howe at, 275-7813