FAQs

Bump outs create a safer environment for pedestrians to cross the street and slow traffic.

Parking spots will not be eliminated at bump outs with the exception in the location of bus stops.

COTA bus stops will remain in the current locations however they will be upgraded with landing pads that are ADA compliant.

The main waterline replacement will include the house lateral to the Curb stop” valve”. If lead service lines are encountered, we will recommend that the owner replace their portion of the line from the curb stop into their house. The city will not replace the private line.

No. During the course of this project, the City's engineers identified some homes along W. First Avenue with galvanized pipes on the privately owned portion and suggested the option of replacement. However, as noted above, replacement of private service lines is not required at this time. You may choose to replace the privately owned portion of your line now, or at any time in the future. There is no requirement that this must happen before this project is completed. During the transfer of water to the new public portion of the line, there is a small chance your existing private line, if not replaced, may become blocked with sediment. If this happens, the City of Columbus Division of Water can clear the meter screen at no cost. If the meter is clear, the next step would be to contact a licensed plumber. Columbus also recommends flushing the lines immediately following transfer of water service. More information is available on Columbus's website and a summary is enclosed entitled Flushing Instructions. We will also provide more information as the switchover nears.

Currently, there is no requirement to replace your private side galvanized service line. We anticipate transfer of the water service to new private lines will start by the end of October or early November; after that, the street will be resurfaced. If the project were to be delayed until all private line replacements were completed, repaving would be delayed until late next spring, after asphalt plants reopen.

Columbus has a very effective corrosion control program that protects pipes from corrosion. Certified water operators adjust the water's chemistry (pH) and add zinc orthophosphate to the treated water. Through the treatment process, certified water operators adjust the water chemistry which makes the water less corrosive and creates a coating in the pipes that serve as a barrier, preventing conditions that can cause lead to leach into water. Water line replacements in areas with lead service lines may cause a temporary increase of lead levels in drinking water. We have provided the attached information on flushing to ensure that any particulates that may have been generated during the work are removed prior to consuming or using any water after the transfer. Flushing is the most effective way to remove particulates. In addition to flushing, if you choose to take extra precautions, water filters that are ANSI certified to remove lead can be purchased from local stores such as Walmart or Target.

While the City maintains a list of registered contractors, it cannot recommend or endorse contractors. We caution homeowners to be wise consumers and to be wary of overinflated prices or individuals who may be looking to scam you. All contractors must be registered with the City's Building Department prior to doing any work within the City. A list of registered contractors on the City's website at www.grandviewheights.gov. Select 'Registered Plumbers' under the 'Service Department' tab to access the list of contractors authorized to work in Grandview Heights, and conduct your own due diligence before hiring a company.