July 20, 2026

Enhancing Flood Control with Box Culverts in Palmer Township, PA

Enhancing Flood Control with Box Culverts in Palmer Township, PA

Background

The Old Nazareth Road Drainage Improvements project in Palmer Township, Pennsylvania, was a critical infrastructure upgrade designed to address long-standing stormwater challenges in a heavily developed commercial and residential area.

Located just less than an hour from Oldcastle Infrastructure’s Telford production facility, the project serves a densely populated area that includes multiple businesses and nearby homes.

Engineered by Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. (HRG) and executed by Doli Construction Corporation, the project required a high-performance drainage solution capable of supporting both current demands and future development. Oldcastle Infrastructure supplied precast concrete box culverts for the project as well as sanitary manholes, both manufactured locally at the Telford plant.

 

Challenge

For decades, the project area experienced significant flooding due to undersized and deteriorating corrugated metal pipe (CMP) infrastructure installed in the early 1980s. The aging stormwater system lacked the capacity to handle increasing runoff, resulting in frequent flooding that impacted many businesses within a one-and-a-half block radius, as well as surrounding residential properties.

In addition to hydraulic limitations, the site presented logistical challenges, including tight construction conditions, active commercial operations, and the need to maintain access for customers and residents. These constraints required a solution that could be installed efficiently while minimizing disruption, all while delivering a long-term improvement in stormwater management.

 

Solution

Oldcastle Infrastructure’s precast concrete box culverts provide a durable, scalable, and high-capacity solution to replace the outdated CMP system. The project incorporated a range of box culvert sizes (primarily 12-foot by 5-foot sections transitioning to 7-foot by 5-foot sections), effectively increasing flow capacity by two to three times compared to the original infrastructure. The solution also included 4-foot diameter sanitary manholes reaching depths of 25 to 30 feet, ensuring compatibility with existing underground utilities and preventing future conflicts.

The use of precast concrete components enabled controlled manufacturing conditions, improved product consistency, and faster on-site installation. Crews averaged the installation of five to eight sections per day, supported by coordinated delivery schedules and close collaboration between Oldcastle Infrastructure and Doli Construction. The modular nature of the box culverts allowed for efficient placement even in confined spaces, addressing the challenges posed by the dense urban environment.

 

Impact

The box culvert installation is expected to deliver a transformative impact on stormwater management in Palmer Township. With an anticipated service life of approximately 100 years, the new system provides a long-term solution designed to accommodate increased runoff and future development. By significantly expanding hydraulic capacity, the upgraded infrastructure will mitigate flooding risks, helping to protect local businesses, reduce property damage, and improve overall community resilience.

During construction, the project required careful coordination to balance progress with ongoing business operations. While temporary disruptions were unavoidable, strong communication and phased installation helped maintain accessibility. Upon completion, the improved drainage system will enhance roadway reliability, reduce maintenance requirements, and deliver lasting value to both residents and business owners.

Further, the project highlights the efficiency benefits of precast concrete solutions, including reduced installation time and improved construction predictability.

 

Conclusion

The Old Nazareth Road Drainage Improvements project demonstrates how Oldcastle Infrastructure’s precast concrete box culverts can effectively address complex stormwater challenges in urban environments. By replacing undersized and deteriorating infrastructure with a high-capacity, durable solution, the project not only resolves longstanding flooding issues but also positions the community for future growth.

Through collaboration with engineering and construction partners, Oldcastle Infrastructure delivered a reliable, high-performance drainage system that will serve the city of Palmer Township for decades to come.

This project reflects the value of high-performing, innovative precast solutions for modern infrastructure projects where performance, longevity, and installation efficiency are all critical.

 

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