MDM Construction Inc., of Hayden, Idaho, has started work on a $2.1 million project to build a large water reservoir and transmission main pipe for the city of Airway Heights to allow for future development in the West Plains city.

Jason Gonwick, an MDM Construction project manager, says construction of the 1-million gallon concrete water reservoir and the installation of the pipe began last month at 11403 W. Deno Road, which is on the south side of Deno Road and west of Hayford Road. MDM Construction expects the work will be completed by mid-April.

Along with building the reservoir, the project includes erecting a booster station with three pumps. The underground, 16-inch-wide water transmission pipe that's being installed will run along Deno Road and then south along Hayford.

The water main will be about 7,555 feet in length and will connect into the city's water system at Sprague Avenue and Hayford, Gonwick says.

This will be the third reservoir in the city's water system and is being added to accommodate future growth, city manager Albert Tripp says. Last year, the city of Airway Heights launched an economic stimulus plan with a focus on street infrastructure and water-supply improvements.

The city will pay for the project through long-term revenue bonds, Tripp says. It is expected to handle capacity from future development on properties near the Northern Quest Resort & Casino and the Spokane County Raceway, he says.