City of Atlanta

Department of Watershed Management

Press Release

March 25, 2011 – Commissioner Dexter White yesterday announced a series of programs and projects designed to identify and repair drinking water system leaks throughout the City. The event, which marked EPA’s Fix-A-Leak Week, included the announcement of Leak Detection and Critical Main programs and a demonstration of the City’s leak detection process.

The Critical Mains repair project will target 54 main segments deemed to be in poor condition or too small to support growth around them. Under the Critical Mains Project, the City was divided into four quadrants to address problems such as leaks and water quality issues. Repairs are also targeting areas where low pressure has contributed to a drop in the fire insurance (ISO) ratings. Work will begin in the Southeast quadrant this summer and proceed throughout the City over the next two years.

“We have done remarkable work on the sewer side,” Commissioner White said. “We anticipate that this work on the drinking water side will be as successful in helping Atlanta become the sustainability poster child that Mayor Reed envisions.”

EPA Regional Deputy Administrator Stan Meiburg joined Commissioner White for the announcement and pointed out that minor changes in water usage patterns in the average home could save 10,000 gallons of water a year. He praised the City for taking on the challenge of reducing water lost to leaks.

Commissioner White also announced the creation of a Leak Hotline at 404-546-LEAK (404-546-5325), urging customers to call when they see leaks to report the address closest to the source of the leak.

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The Department of Watershed Management provides drinking water and wastewater collection and treatment services to more than 1 million people over a 650-square-mile area.

Press releases