Commuters traveling Mission Gorge Road in Santee should plan ahead — major sewer pipeline construction is set to begin on Sunday, March 16, as part of the East County Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program.

The work involves installing sewer pipelines beneath Mission Gorge Road and is expected to run through May 31, 2028 — a project spanning more than two years. Construction hours will follow standard weekday schedules, and lane closures are expected throughout the duration of the project.

The East County AWP Program is a regional infrastructure effort designed to create a local, drought-resistant drinking water supply for East San Diego County, including Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, and surrounding communities. The Mission Gorge Road segment is one of several pipeline installations underway across the region.

Access to homes and businesses along the construction corridor will be maintained throughout the project, according to officials. Residents should plan for extra travel time, and be prepared for noise, dust, and occasional odors near active work zones.

For a detailed map of the exact work location, the East County AWP Program has published an interactive map on its website at eastcountyawp.com.