HONOLULU -- Next week, about 20,000 college students start class at the University of Hawaii.

But that's also when a major construction project to replace aging water lines begins.

KITV's Catherine Cruz reported that the $1 million project calls for replacing the water lines under very heavily traveled Manoa roads.

The work has to be done because the pipes are almost 60 years old, city officials said.

Manoa resident Jerry chow said he understands.

"If it's got to be done, it's got to be done. Otherwise something disastrous might happen," Chow said.

There have already been 28 breaks in the line, and the water feeds not only homes but fire hydrants as well.

But the bad news is that the work will last for about a year and will inconvenience motorists and residents.

The board of water supply said during the first week of school, it won't close any lanes, although drivers may see some surveyors on the road, officials said.

After the first week, crews will start on Hunewell Street between Seaview and Haena.

A second section along Metcalf is expected to have the most impact, officials said.

Many parents who take their children to school in the Manoa area often use it as a shortcut.

The city said it has alerted nearby schools.

Others in the Valley said they worry about having driveways blocked.

UH graduate Kyle Toma said he wasn't pleased at the news.

He said he lives and parks his car on Metcalf Street, and he doesn't know where he is going to park when the street is closed.

The last section of the project will be on Hoonanea between Metcalf and Dole.

Drivers should be prepared for delays when traveling in the area.