(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved a water line replacement project.

On the recommendation of Water Superintendent Brad Scott, the Commission Monday evening approved replacing the water main on Miami Street from 4th to 9th Street at estimated cost of nearly $63,000 for materials and equipment.   City crews will provide the labor.

Scott said with the impending replacement of Miami Street, now would be the optimum time to replace the old 4-inch cast iron main, along with any lead service lines tapped into the main.

He said they’ve had problems in the past with various tap leaks.

Scott said plans are to go with an 8-inch main from 4th to 6th Streets, and then a six-inch main down to 9th Street.  

Currently, the existing main is under the curb from 4th to 6th Street and under the street from 6th to 9th Street.  

Scott said the project will allow them to move the main to the north right-of-way, getting it out from under the new street.

He said the project will also improve water flow, especially around the elementary school area, along with fire protection.