The City of Laredo addressed the community’s concerns on the current water issue during a press conference Tuesday morning.
Through the activated Emergency Operation Center, the City can now request support from the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), as well as local partners and organizations.
The EOC has already made multiple requests to TDEM, including the request for truckloads and tankers of bottled water, the Texas National Guard for distribution assistance, and especially the collaboration of the state’s public works emergency response team that can assist the Utilities Department with valuable resources.
In addition to this, the City is also receiving in-person assistance from the San Antonio Water System (SAWS).
Update on broken water line
The Utilities Department will replace the entire 36-inch line that broke on Friday evening, which could take several days. Crews worked on the line for three days straight by installing clamps, but more leaks began to occur due to aged infrastructure. This is a main line that feeds from the Milmo tank and the Jefferson Plant. Due to the work being done in the area, the intersection of Hendricks Ave. and East Lyon St. as well as Frost St. from Springfield Ave. to Monterrey St. will be shut down as crews continue to work.
It is important to know that once service is restored, a Boil Water Notice will continue to be in effect until the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) confirms water quality. The Boil Water Notice is not due to bacteria in the water, but rather to lost pressure in the water lines.
Available resources for those affected
The City of Laredo will continue to provide water to those affected until the water supply has been restored. The EOC is currently working with local and state partners to provide non-potable water and water bottles. Residents must bring their own clean containers and all distributions will be done on a first-come, first-served basis.
If a resident in need of water is homebound, ill, or does not have transportation to any of these sites, the community can call 3-1-1 and provide the residents’ information and crews can deliver water to their home.
Residents in need may utilize shower facilities from 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. at the following locations:
- Holding Institute – 1102 Santa Maria Ave.
- Catholic Charities Center – 1701 Main Ave.
Users are encouraged to provide their own personal supplies and toiletries such as towels, soaps, shampoos, etc.
Bottled Water Distribution for Wednesday, February 23 at 4:00 p.m.
- Independence Hills Park – 1102 N. Merida Dr.
- Las Misiones Park – 6001 Servando Dr.
- Inner City Park – 202 W. Plum St.
- Freddy Benavides Sports Complex – 1920 Palo Blanco St.
- Sames Auto Arena – 6700 Arena Blvd.
- El Eden Recreation Center – 4735 Loma Vista Dr.
The City of Laredo is asking the community to do its part to conserve water. Some examples of non-essential water use are irrigation of lawns, filling of swimming pools, car washes or using power washers, washing of building exteriors, operating hoses without nozzles, and washing partial loads in washing machines or dishwashers.
City officials reiterate their commitment to providing information and updates to the community as it becomes available during these trying times. The community’s understanding is greatly appreciated.
The community may find additional information by visiting www.cityoflaredo.com or through the official social media channels: Facebook – @ City of Laredo – Government; Instagram – @officialcityoflaredo; Twitter – @CityofLaredo
