Leaks Delay Reopening of Water Line
Repair crews discovered leaks Sunday in newly repaired sections of a critical San Diego County water pipeline, forcing suppliers to continue tapping other sources and to renew requests that 375,000 customers curtail “non-essential” water uses.
The so-called Pomerado pipeline--which serves South Bay and East County--has been out of service since June 2, when workers began replacing five sections totaling 120 feet in the huge steel-and-concrete aqueduct structure.
The pipeline was due to be returned to service Sunday, but crews examining the repairs discovered leaks, said Charlie Cassens, spokesman for the Otay Water District, one of five water suppliers that use the line.
The pipeline is now expected to be working by midweek, Cassens said.
Meanwhile, residents are being asked to continue curtailing water use, including all outdoor applications. The request has been in place since June 2.
To make up for the shortfall, suppliers have purchased water from the city of San Diego and other sources. The presence of alternate supplies has forestalled the need for mandatory restrictions, Cassens said.
The Pomerado pipeline, 7 feet in diameter, transports treated and filtered water from Lake Skinner in Riverside County to consumers in San Diego County.
A section of the pipeline ruptured in September, prompting the series of repairs.
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