W. Rosemary St. to Close for OWASA Water Main Project

Published on February 05, 2026

West Rosemary Street street sign between traffic lights

On Monday, February 16, W. Rosemary Street is scheduled to close to traffic from E. Main Street to Church Street for about three months. This is the first of a series of closures – one at a time – on W. Rosemary Street as Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) works to replace a water main that’s more than 80 years old.

“We’re pleased to share that this project is moving along well. We know this next phase is a bigger disruption, and we’re grateful for the community’s patience,” said OWASA Project Manager Darren Berger. “These closures are a critical step toward building the most reliable water infrastructure that serves everyone who enjoys downtown.”

Getting Around

If you’re driving or biking, W. Franklin Street will be the simplest detour around the closures. While sidewalks are expected to remain open, there will be temporary closures at times and detours will be posted to help people who are walking and rolling through the area.

“There are many businesses and community spaces along W. Rosemary Street, and we’re asking our community to remember that they’re still open despite the street closure,” said Sarah Potter, the Town’s Business Vitality Manager. “You’ll still be able to reach them from W. Franklin Street, and we know they’ll appreciate your support.”

Chapel Hill Transit’s A route continues to serve the Northside neighborhood with temporary stops on Lindsay and Church streets.

Staying Informed

OWASA and the Town of Chapel Hill are working together to share information that’ll help community members plan ahead. There are several ways to stay connected:

Visit this OWASA page to learn about the project and detours.
Sign up here for OWASA’s emails about the project and detours.
Sign up here to receive news, events, stories, and alerts from the Town

Water Service

In the last few months, OWASA installed a temporary water line to ensure water service continues during the project and doesn’t expect significant water service impacts. If there are any, OWASA will reach out directly to customers.

"This project requires teamwork among many, many community members,” said Berger. “We’re especially grateful for the understanding and perspectives of downtown residents, business owners, and employees closest to the project.”