Granite-Super JV Awarded Big Creek Tunnel Contract
The $324.8 million project marks the final storage tunnel for Cleveland's Project Clean Lake.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Home Renovation
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The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District has awarded a $324.8 million contract to Granite-Super Joint Venture for the construction of the Big Creek Tunnel. This infrastructure project serves as the final storage tunnel in the long-term Project Clean Lake program.
Why it matters
The project is designed to significantly reduce combined sewer overflows and combat wet-weather flooding across the region. By capturing excess wastewater, it aims to improve overall water quality in Northeast Ohio.
The main tunnel measures 22,300 feet in length and 20 feet in diameter, supported by 3,115 linear feet of ancillary tunnels. The contract cost sits 8% above the initial engineer's estimate of $300 million.
The players
Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District
This is the regional authority responsible for wastewater treatment and storm water management across the Greater Cleveland area.
Granite-Super Joint Venture
This is the construction partnership selected to build the Big Creek Tunnel infrastructure.
Wade Trim
This is a professional engineering and design firm that provided the technical plans for the tunnel system.
The details
Designed by Wade Trim, the massive underground storage system will help eliminate 550 million gallons of annual sewer releases. The work involves installing large storage tunnels and wastewater treatment upgrades to manage flows during storms.
Timeline
The Project Clean Lake program began in 2011.
The sewer district issued the invitation for bids in April 2026.
Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2026.
Construction is expected to be completed in winter 2030.
Roadmap
This project represents the final stage of the $3 billion Project Clean Lake program launched in 2011. It builds upon the two billion gallons of overflow already eliminated, cementing the region's long-term commitment to modernizing its legacy sewer infrastructure.
Residents in the Big Creek watershed can expect reduced wet-weather flooding once the project is operational. The initiative ultimately helps protect local property and public health by managing sewer overflows more effectively during heavy rainfall.
The takeaway
The Big Creek Tunnel represents a significant long-term investment in regional water management to mitigate storm damage. Residents should stay informed about construction timelines as the city moves toward the project completion date in 2030.
What happens next
Construction on the tunnel system is scheduled to commence in the fall of 2026, with an anticipated completion date in the winter of 2030.
Further reading
Learn more about local infrastructure improvements in the Home Renovation section.
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