Gettysburg, PA - A new waterline will be installed in the Gettysburg National Cemetery over the next few weeks. This new waterline will replace a waterline that was first installed in 1939. The new line will be installed directly above the old line and there is no expected concern of impacts to burials or any other underground resource. All excavation work will be monitored by an NPS archaeologist.
The existing waterline was first installed in 1939 to support irrigation and monument cleaning but has been out of service for more than five years due to leaks. A contract to replace the line was awarded late last year. In consultation with the State Historic Preservation Office and our own Cultural Resources staff, we have agreed to a plan to best approach this work. To limit the disturbance to the landscape, as well as underground, the replacement waterline will be installed directly above the existing waterline. A vibratory plow will be used to cut a narrow path down 24 inches and the new plastic line will be installed as the contractor proceeds with the plow.
Starting tomorrow, June 4, excavation work will begin in locations where new hose connections will be installed along with pits for boring the waterline under the cemetery roadway. Since the waterline is getting installed directly on top of the waterline installed in 1939, there is no expected concern of impacts to burials or any other underground resource. All excavation work will be monitored by an NPS archaeologist.
Work is expected to be complete by the end of June. If this project is not complete by the end of June, work will cease during the 156th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg (July 1-3) and resume shortly thereafter.
Gettysburg National Cemetery was established in 1863 as a final resting place for Union dead killed in the Battle of Gettysburg. Currently, over 6,000 deceased service members, including those killed in action in the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Korean and Vietnam conflicts rest within its 17 acres.
Tags: gettysburg gettysburg national cemetery gettysburg national military park military battlefield monuments memorials presidents national cemeteries veterans civil war construction
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
