Ossum Wash Repair Project

The Ossum Wash Repair Project is an emergency infrastructure initiative led by the Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority to protect two critical sewer pipelines, a 36-inch reinforced concrete pipe and a 42-inch vitrified clay pipe, which transport approximately 1 million gallons of daily sewage for the City of Victorville. Recent heavy rain events caused substantial erosion in Ossum Wash, leaving the pipelines with only about four feet of cover, creating a high risk of pipe failure and sewage spills. To mitigate this, the project involves installing grouted riprap on the channel side slope, extending the grouted riprap channel to the northerly extent of the pipeline easement, and installing a loose riprap lined channel downstream. The work is located in northern Victorville, San Bernardino County, specifically along Turner Road. The project scope includes the excavation of approximately 2,500 cubic yards of material and the placement of 250 cubic yards of fill, with a projected construction timeline of four to six weeks during standard daytime hours. Environmental compliance is a key component, with a Mitigated Negative Declaration and an Initial Study covering biological resources, air quality, and cultural properties. The design adheres to San Bernardino County criteria, the Los Angeles County Flood Control District’s Hydraulic Design Manual, and Caltrans standards. Financial estimates for the project include extensive line items for excavation, concrete lining, fencing, right-of-way acquisition, and the installation of multiple culverts across various stations. Coordination with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Colorado River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board is required for any streambed alterations.