Press Release

Department of Watershed Management Repairs 60-inch Water Main using Innovative Cost-Saving Method   

ATLANTA – The Department of Watershed Management started repairs to address a 60-inch suction water main leak at the Hemphill Water Treatment Plant today. Using an innovative method, five divers submerged in water to repair the pipe targeting the main piping system. Water and wastewater construction specialists were contracted to assist with repair.

“Our primary goal is to locate the leak as soon as possible to effectively and efficiently conduct the water main repair, said Deputy Commissioner Richard T. Parker. “Repairing the water main from inside the pipe will contribute to a $500,000 cost savings for the City.”

The primary diver will be positioned approximately 400’ into the pipeline while the additional divers assist with the repair and manage logistics and the air supply hoses. The dive team is outfitted with cameras providing a live video feed to be viewed outside of the main.

The repair will take place over the next two days, weather permitting.

City of Atlanta residents and businesses’ water services should not be impacted. In an abundance of caution, Emergency Management and Safety personnel are on standby until the work is completed.

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