Key Highlights
- Damage to a 36-inch transmission main on Thomaston Avenue in Waterbury is worse than expected.
- Crews have been working since Friday night to restore water service after the main failed.
- A boil water order has been issued for Waterbury and parts of surrounding towns.
- Restoration efforts are ongoing, with full service not expected until days later.
New Damage to Water Main in Waterbury Disrupts Service
The damage to a critical 36-inch transmission main on Thomaston Avenue in Waterbury, Connecticut, is significantly worse than initially thought, according to Mayor Paul Pernerewski. The mayor held a press conference on Sunday to inform the public and update on the ongoing restoration efforts.
Initial Failure and Assessment
The failure of this main on Wednesday led to another water main break, exacerbating the situation. Crews were finally able to access the underground area over the weekend to fully assess the extent of the damage, a process that has taken longer than anticipated due to the complexity of the issue.
Restoration Efforts and Service Update
Since Friday night, much of Waterbury’s water service has been interrupted. The mayor reported partial restoration in parts of downtown and the Bunker Hill section as of Sunday afternoon. However, full service is not expected until several days later due to the scale of the repairs needed.
Hospital Supply and School Closures
Both Waterbury Hospital and Saint Mary’s Hospital are being fully supplied with water and remain operational despite the disruption. The city has also taken steps to mitigate the impact on local businesses, instructing restaurants in affected areas not to prepare or serve food until a boil water order is lifted.
Community Impact and Response
The mayor highlighted the quick response from local volunteers who have been distributing potable water at Municipal Stadium and Crosby High School. Katherine Aquino of Waterbury expressed appreciation for this assistance, stating, “I’m really appreciative with what’s going on and giving out the water.” Residents are advised to use only bottled or boiled water until further notice.
Future Plans and Citywide Impact
Waterbury is working on a long-term solution involving the creation of a new section of main that will divert water to ensure continuity. This plan, however, is still in its early stages, with no clear timeline for completion. In the meantime, residents are being advised to conserve water and follow all public health guidelines related to the boil water order.
The disruption has also affected neighboring communities like Wolcott, where schools will be closed on Monday as a precautionary measure. The city is closely monitoring the situation and providing regular updates through local media outlets and official channels.