Iraqi construction workers place new sections of pipe for a sewer network in the Salhiyah neighborhood of northwest Baghdad, recently. The project was funded by Coalition forces, but the plan and execution were in the hands of local Iraqi government officials. Photo courtesy of 1st Infantry Division.

BAGHDAD

"I was pleased to see this sewage project in our area," said Mobarak, Salhiyah neighborhood council chairman. "We have not seen a project like this occur in our area in over 15 years."

The project was one of many started and seen through to completion by members of the Joint Project Management Office (JPMO) of the 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team (HBCT), but this project stood out to the Soldiers because of the direct impact it will have on the citizens here.

"The people of Salhiyah will have a new sewer network that will last for decades," said Maj. Andy Attar, officer in charge, JPMO, 2HBCT. "It's a great sign of Iraq moving forward."

Following a small ceremony to commemorate completion of the project, the contractor in charge provided a luncheon for the leaders in attendance.

The luncheon was a chance for the leaders to discuss the importance of the project as well as reflect on their choice of who should be responsible for the construction of the sewage plant.

"I was very happy to see this event turn out so successfully," said Jamal, Karkh Beladiyah director general. "I was happy about the choice of the contractor because I knew he would follow up on his work."

Another positive sign for the project was the start to finish involvement by the local government in an effort that shows Iraqis are ready to take and keep the lead on future reconstruction efforts.

"This sewer network was designed by Baghdad City planners," said Attar. "The work was supervised by their engineers daily with the Dagger Brigade in overwatch."

(By Sgt. Brian Tierce, 1st Infantry Division)