Marin Water to Start Miracle Mile Pipeline Work

Construction begins October 20 on a project replacing aging infrastructure in San Rafael.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Construction

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy industrial pipe section in a trench, representing municipal water infrastructure replacement.
Marin Water will begin a pipeline replacement project in San Rafael on October 20, upgrading over a mile of aging water infrastructure. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Marin Water is scheduled to begin a pipeline replacement project along the Miracle Mile corridor in San Rafael starting October 20, 2026. The work will upgrade over a mile of aging infrastructure by installing 7,000 feet of new welded steel pipe.

Why it matters

Replacing aging cast iron pipeline is essential to maintaining the structural integrity and reliability of the local water distribution system. The project ensures continued water service for residents and businesses by addressing infrastructure before potential failures occur.

The project involves the replacement of 7,000 feet of cast iron pipe with new welded steel pipe. This work covers more than a mile of pipeline within the San Rafael corridor.

The players

Marin Water

This public agency provides water service to residents and businesses in the San Rafael area.

City of San Rafael

This municipal government coordinates with local utility providers to manage public infrastructure and traffic.

The details

The construction is divided into two phases, with the first phase focusing on Marquard Avenue and sections of Second and Fourth streets. While the project necessitates temporary street parking restrictions for safety, Marin Water and the City of San Rafael confirmed that businesses and properties will remain accessible.

Timeline

  1. Construction begins on the Miracle Mile corridor on October 20, 2026.

  2. Phase one is expected to be completed in late December 2026.

Market Landscape

This project follows the pattern of asset management and infrastructure resilience encouraged by the American Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. It reflects a broader industry trend of replacing legacy piping to reduce maintenance costs and avoid service interruptions.

Residents and business owners near the Miracle Mile corridor should prepare for temporary street parking restrictions during active work. Despite these changes, all properties will maintain full access for customers and commuters throughout the project duration.

The takeaway

Proactive infrastructure upgrades like this one help prevent emergency repairs that could cause more significant traffic and water service disruptions in the future. Residents are encouraged to monitor local city notices for updates on parking changes as phase one progresses.

Further reading

For more information on local infrastructure developments, see the San Rafael Construction section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by KRON4.

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