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Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project

 

Welcome to the Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Webpage

The City of Manchester is investing over $360 million in a cleaner future with the Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project. In collaCity of Manchester Department of Public Works CBDT Project Logoboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, this project will reconstruct our current drainage system to reduce combined sewer overflows that can discharge into the Merrimack River after heavy rainfall. This project will significantly improve water quality of the Merrimack River now and into the future.

This homepage is intended to keep Manchester residents informed about the project's progress, upcoming road closures, and any construction activities that may affect the community. You can also explore the project's history and watch our video to learn more about this exciting initiative and how its shaping our community's future. 

Contact a Team Member

Phone Number: 603-792-5384
This voice mailbox is reviewed by a team member on a daily basis. Please leave a detailed message with your name, phone number and address and we will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you! 

Email: cbdtunnel@manchesternh.gov
This inbox is reviewed by a team member on a daily basis. Please send a detailed message with your name, phone number, address and include the best way to respond to your inquiry and we will contact you as soon as possible. Thank you! 

 

Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project Announcements

Brown Ave Lane Closure Notice: Starting October 14, 2025

Published: 10/06/2025 12:17 PM

As part of the Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project, the southbound lane on Brown Ave south of Queen City Ave. will be closed for an extended period of time.

  • Closure begins: October 14, 2025
  • Anticipated reopening: October 30, 2026

What to Expect:

  • Traffic pattern will be modified to maintain southbound travel around the closure, signs in the area will direct motorists.
  • Northbound traffic will be detoured around the closure.
  • Driveway access to local businesses and homes within closures will be maintained and closely coordinated by the Contractor.

Important Notes

  • Please follow posted detour signs and allow extra travel time. Refer to the detour figure provided below.
  • Parking will be prohibited within the construction area
  • For lane shifts during construction, follow new lane markings and cones and allow extra travel time.
  • Whenever possible, we encourage drivers to plan ahead and avoid the construction area.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to enhance our community’s infrastructure.

Sincerely,

Environmental Protection Division
Department of Public Works
City of Manchester

Brown_Ave_Extended_Lane_Closure_Figure

Union Street Temporary Roadway Closure Notice: Starting October 24th

Published: 10/06/2025 12:13 PM

As part of the Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project, a portion of Union St. from Willow St. to Clay St. will be closed for a period of time. A detour via Willow and Beech Street will be signposted.

  • Closure begins: October 24, 2025
  • Anticipated reopening: November 14, 2025

What to Expect:

  • Both vehicular traffic lanes will be closed.
  • Pedestrian access will be maintained on the southbound side.
  • Local business and residential driveway access will be maintained and will be closely coordinated by the contractor.

Important Notes:

  • Please follow posted detour signs and allow extra travel time. Refer to the detour figure provided below.
  • Parking will be prohibited within the construction area
  • Whenever possible, we encourage drivers to plan ahead and avoid the construction area.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to enhance our community’s infrastructure.

Sincerely,

Environmental Protection Division
Department of Public Works
City of Manchester

Union_St_Road_Closure_Figure

 

Riverwalk Extended Closure Notice: Starting September 8th

Published: 09/04/2025 3:57 PM

As part of the Cemetery Brook Drain Tunnel Project, a section of the Riverwalk from Dunbar Street to Riverwalk Way will be closed for an extended period of time.

  • Closure begins: September 8, 2025
  • Anticipated reopening: Fall 2028

What to Expect:

  • Signs will guide pedestrians and cyclists with details on closure limits. Please refer to the figure below for closure limits.
  • Please plan ahead and utilize alternate travel routes.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to enhance our community’s infrastructure.

Sincerely,

Environmental Protection Division
Department of Public Works
City of Manchester

Riverwalk Trail Closure Map

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