The District is committed to protecting local water resources by extending public sewer service to neighborhoods currently using on‑site septic systems. Over time, septic systems can deteriorate and release untreated or partially treated wastewater into streams, groundwater, and residential areas. These discharges may contain contaminants such as nitrates and fecal coliform bacteria, which pose risks to public health, water quality, and the surrounding environment. Expanding the public sewer system enables the safe decommissioning of aging and failing septic systems, reducing pollution and supporting long‑term environmental health.

Using an established set of criteria, the District evaluated individual Septic Elimination Project (SEP) areas and identified the highest-priority projects. The Wallace Heights project rose to the top of the list.

The project will extend sewer service in the neighborhood by installing public sewer mains and public sewer laterals. Public sewer laterals will be extended to the property line, which may be located behind the curb, to minimize homeowner cost for private sewer lateral improvements.

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The Wallace Heights SEP project has been split into two phases.

Phase 1 is in the Construction phase. Construction is anticipated in 2026.

Phase 2 is currently in design. Construction is currently planned for 2027.

Construction to install the sewer will use open-cut excavation methods, which consists of digging a trench, laying pipe, and backfilling. Public sewer mains will generally run parallel with roadways. Public sewer laterals will extend from the sewer main to the property line which may be located behind the curb. Photos from past projects are included below.

Over the past several years, the District sought funding to aid in lowering project costs and make the connection to sewer more accessible for residents. The District has successfully obtained partial project funding through two state grants from the WA State Capital Budget and one federal grant from the EPA. The state grants were made possible by the support of State Representatives Greg Cheney and Sharon Wylie. The federal grant was made possible by support from Representative Marie Glusenkamp-Perez and Senator Maria Cantwell.

To supplement grant funding, the District will use system development charge revenue, which is collected from new development, to fund the remaining cost for the project.