For the earlier work on the Sewer Main Pump replacement project, see: July 9: Putting a metal frame into a large hole [ https://photos.app.goo.gl/LhVABJAqpZM2XpaV9 ]; July 10: Putting a large tank into the hole [ https://photos.app.goo.gl/1ecmVECumKermA2i9 ].

After a week without action, VACRI was back early on Monday July 22. Monday through Thursday, they dug in the same area early every morning, worked in the hole and filled it in when they had finished work for the day. They were making connections to be ready for NYSEG to make the gas connection for backup power generation when power goes out. The photos were taken when convenient, usually from a distance for reasons of safety, and are not a complete story. The first two show the morning digging operation; some of the fill was left on site with the rest being loaded into a truck. The digging was next to the west side of the rectangular vault that was installed in the Fall of 2023.

The three photos from Tuesday illustrate making pipe connections using a device that clamped two PVC pipes together while heat was applied to weld them. The first photo was taken while the crew was waiting for a weld to cool. The second shows a couple of the clamping devices between the cones. The third provides an overview.