CRANBERRY TWP — The township’s board of supervisors voted 3-0 to approve a $237,355 contract with Heckman Diversified Construction Services for a waterline extension project along Goehring Road during a meeting Thursday, June 4.

The proposed project will tap into the current water system and install necessary infrastructure for reliable water access for Powell Farm, the nearby 71-acre property being developed by the township for agricultural production and preservation.

Board chairman Bruce Hezlep and vice chairwoman Karen Newpol were absent from the meeting.

Additionally, the project aims to improve water quality and expand utility services in the surrounding area, Kyle Beidler, assistant township manager said.

Beidler said there has been a segment missing on Goehring Road that ties the main waterline together. Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, the engineering firm the township hired to assist in developing the Powell Farm master plan, had reported that the loop needs to be connected to prevent dead ends.

“This is the first step in expanding that line,” Beidler said. “When that work is done, our utility department is going to be able to tap into that (line) to bring a 2-inch line into the farm as a short-term solution.”

The long-term irrigation plan for the farm is a more sustainable pond system. The waterline will help provide potable water for the time being, Beidler said.

Beidler said the first phase of the project is expected to be completed by the end of year.