Main & Manchester Improvement Project
Introduction
Living well. Moving safely. Growing smart. Making our downtown a unique destination
The City of Middletown is building an underground storage basin at the corner of N. Main Street and Manchester Avenue to capture excess storm water during rain events. Above the basin, we're planning a great new community space. Construction, as seen below, began in 2024 and will be completed in 2026 so please check back often for updates!
Project Details
We’re investing in our wastewater management system. One of the biggest enhancements is the construction of a 5.1-million-gallon underground storage basin, located on the west side of N. Main Street, between Columbia Avenue and Manchester Avenue. This basin will be used to significantly reduce overflows of the combined sewer system and ultimately improve the quality of local water resources, like the Great Miami River.
Our combined sewer system collects both sanitary sewage and storm water and takes it to the treatment facility to be cleaned and disinfected. During heavy wet weather events, however, storm water can overwhelm local sewer lines. When this happens, the system is designed to release excess wastewater flows into local streams and rivers to prevent basement backups in local homes and businesses. These events are called Combined Sewer Overflows, or CSOs.
The underground storage basin is designed to capture these overflows before they are released into the environment and store them until wastewater levels in the sewer system return to normal. Then, the stored wastewater will be slowly returned to the sewer system and sent to the treatment plant for processing.
This underground storage basin will support the city’s goal of adhering to the highest environmental standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.
Creating a Community Asset
When construction of the underground storage basin is complete, new surface landscaping will be added to revitalize the previously vacant lots. The landscaping will include plenty of green space that can be used for recreation.
Our vision for Downtown Middletown is to provide a vibrant community where people live and visit and businesses call home. Updates such as the Main and Manchester Improvement Project, along with the Central Avenue Project, are part of our efforts to create a thriving Downtown that serves the community for years to come.
More details will be revealed as the plans for this space are finalized.
What to Expect During Construction
Construction Timing
Construction for the underground storage basin has begun and will continue through 2025, weather permitting. Surface landscaping and installation of related amenities are anticipated to be completed in 2026.
Estimated Construction Cost
The total cost of the underground storage basin is estimated to be $54 million, with about $2.4 million in pre-construction services. Cost estimates for surface features are still being developed.
Getting Around During Construction
Currently, no detours are planned during construction as most work will happen in areas off the main roads. Occasional temporary road and/or sidewalk closures are possible as materials and equipment are moved in and out of the area. Watch for construction crews in the roadway and directional signage as needed.
Contact Us
Questions or comments about the Main & Manchester Improvement Project can be submitted by contacting the project manager directly: