WATER MAIN UPDATE

Yesterday morning at approximately 9:05 there was a rupture of a water main under High Ridge road on a major main that serves virtually all of lower Easton’s public water supply. There was immediate extensive damage to High Ridge road and down on to South Park Ave. Our DPW and Fire departments along with Aquarion responded immediately and water was shut off within less than one hour. As soon public safety was assured, silt screens were put down to mitigate any environmental damage to the extent possible.

Aquarion’s subcontractor, Burns construction was dispatched and isolated the problem which was a large hole in a 12 inch steel pipe and subsequently recognized a crack extending several feet further up hill. I am unaware of any analysis of what cause this damage at the current time. If more information becomes available we will make it public.

The first action was to set up a temporary bypass of the break which provided some water to customers. However, it took some time to pressurize the system. Meanwhile Burns began repairing the main by placing and connecting a replacement section of pipe. That work was completed around 7PM. As I said last night Aquarion presented, and the local and state health department agreed that because of the sequence and condition of the damage, the water itself was not contaminated and did not need to be boiled. There was some sediment that needed to run through and repressurization  which needed to occur but running the water until it appeared normal was deemed safe.

South Park avenue is now open. Work is ongoing on High Ridge road, but they are allowing people to pass on a limited basis for local residents. It is my hope that the road will be paved in the next few days.

While this is a large job to deal with, it is Aquarion’s responsibility and there will be no town expense. That being said, Aquarion and Burns were extremely forthright and professional and the work was accomplished with great speed allowing almost all of us to return to our normal lives within the day. We thank them for their hard work. In my years as First Selectman I have come to recognize the excellence of our town workers who serve us all.  Although we have come to expect their   fine service I want to thank them as always for their hard work.