Pocatello Pushes to Finish Johnny Creek Sanitary Sewer Project Before Winter

POCATELLO — The new sewer line for the Johnny Creek Sanitary Sewer Project on the south side of Pocatello, Idaho, is in the ground, and the city is pushing to get the road repaved before winter. Crews have finished installing the gravity sewer main and manholes, and work has shifted to preparing the roadbed and restoring the asphalt torn up during construction, the city said Nov. 5, 2026.

The Johnny Creek project is supported by a $1.75 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, awarded through the 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act.

What the Johnny Creek sewer line does

Public Works Director Tom Kirkman told the Idaho State Journal that the pipeline runs roughly three-quarters of a mile up the center of Johnny Creek and connects to existing sewer lines near the top of the hill. Design was finished last year, and construction began around July.

The area was annexed into the city from the county years ago, and many properties there rely on septic systems. Kirkman said failing systems are expensive to replace and can add nitrates to groundwater. City officials said the project supports Pocatello's Comprehensive Plan 2040, which calls for connecting more of the city to sanitary sewer to protect groundwater and surface water in the Portneuf River Valley.

No homes are being connected as part of the current work. Kirkman said the Pocatello City Council will consider waiving sewer hookup fees for the area at an upcoming study session.

Getting the road done before winter

The city has raised concerns about the contractor's progress, staffing, equipment and upkeep of the roadway. Kirkman told the Idaho State Journal the general contractor that won the bid ran into financial problems, and the bonding company that guaranteed the work, known as the surety, has taken over. City officials met with the surety and agreed on a plan to bring more workers to the site over the next week or two.

One subcontractor will rebuild disturbed slopes, prepare the pipe trench, compact the soil and dig out soft spots. A second subcontractor will then pave, which Kirkman estimated will take three to four days. Some cleanup could remain for spring. "The city recognizes the inconvenience and frustration that construction delays and deteriorating roadway conditions can cause for residents, businesses and motorists," the city said.

Living in Pocatello

Johnny Creek is on Pocatello's south side. See the Pocatello city guide, browse new home communities in Pocatello like Copper Creek and The Ridges at Trail Creek, check homes for sale in Pocatello, or read about the Hiline Road intersection reopening and more Pocatello growth news. Thank you for reading Treasure Idaho.