A recent break in a 48-inch water main left a Philadelphia neighborhood flooded and caused local evacuations in an event that CBS Philly is calling another exhibit of its aging water system.

The water main was one of the oldest and largest in the city, according to the news organization.

“We never want a main break to occur,” Brian Rademaekers, Philadelphia Water Department spokesperson, told CBS. “But when they do occur, our job is to come out here and respond quickly as possible and minimize any impacts to the customers.”

New Jersey Embarks on Its Large-Scale Lead Pipe Replacement Project

New Jersey water utilities have taken the first steps towards identifying and removing the state’s lead-containing service lines, in accordance with New Jersey’s legislation aimed to reduce lead in drinking water to improve public health.

As reported by the American Water Works Association New Jersey Section, within the next few weeks, certified letters will be sent to all customers who have a known lead-containing service line, informing them of their potential lead exposure and options for decreasing their exposure. Utilities will be offering to replace lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031, including the portion owned by the utility and the portion owned by the private property-owner.

The State of New Jersey passed legislation in July 2021 mandating removal of all service lines made of lead or galvanized steel and all lead connectors within 10 years.

Austin Water Director Resigns After Citywide Boil-Water Notice

Austin (Texas) Water Director Greg Meszaros has resigned and three employees have been placed on leave following a citywide boil-water notice resulting from employee error.

In a resignation letter to the city manager, Meszaros wrote that he took full responsibility for any shortcomings at the utility.

Meanwhile, the city’s mayor is moving forward with a call for an independent external audit of Austin Water.