Battle Ground city officials say the prolonged closure of 92nd Avenue is the result of serious deficiencies uncovered during a routine sewer‑line inspection. What was originally slated as a six‑week utility upgrade has now stretched to almost twelve months as contractors work to remove and replace faulty pipe sections.
Inspection reveals widespread problems
City Engineer Ryan Jaynes explained that the inspection video showed “improper depressions” and gaps at pipe connections along the entire length of the newly installed line. These “bellies” in the pipe could cause water and waste to collect, violating both city and industry standards. Because the issues were pervasive, the contractor chose to excavate, remove, and reinstall the affected sections rather than attempt spot repairs.
Impact on the Village at Cherry Grove development
The sewer work is tied to the Village at Cherry Grove, a residential subdivision planned along the northern stretch of 92nd Avenue. The development, which will eventually include 180 townhomes, a park, and additional streets, was required to extend water and sewer services to the new homes. The city issued the initial right‑of‑way permit in August 2025, with two subsequent permits allowing the extended timeline.
Jaynes noted that while the sewer repairs could be completed as soon as the week of August 13, the roadway itself will not be ready for traffic or paving immediately. The city must verify that the repaired line has the proper grade and flow characteristics before paving can begin. Once verification is complete, crews will build a gravel base, install road fabric and additional rock, and ultimately restore the asphalt and roadside ditches to their pre‑construction condition.
Future improvements and upcoming projects
When the Village at Cherry Grove frontages 92nd Avenue, the developer will be responsible for adding streetlights, landscaping, sidewalks, and other frontage improvements to meet current city standards. The city’s Non‑Motorized Transportation Action Plan also highlights existing gaps in sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure, though funding for those projects remains limited.
Jaynes warned that this is not the last development to affect 92nd Avenue. The Linggall subdivision, located south of Cherry Grove, is already under construction and will require similar frontage upgrades. A commercial and industrial project near the city’s sanitary‑sewer pump station is also in the pipeline, as is the review of the BG Commons development.
City’s role and public communication
The city will continue to provide public outreach where possible, but daily traffic updates remain the contractor’s responsibility. “We’ll help with what we can see in terms of traffic impacts,” Jaynes said, emphasizing that the city is not directly managing the private construction schedule.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the city’s website and local news outlets for any changes to traffic patterns or road‑work schedules.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
