More than a month after a water main break triggered power outages, road closures and evacuations in New Westminster, the pipe has been repaired.
Metro Vancouver announced Tuesday that repairs to the damaged section of the water main near East Columbia Street are complete, saying that the pipe would be put into service “today.”
“Residents have thus far seen no interruption to their drinking water service and there will be no change when the main goes back online,” the regional district said in its statement.
“However, they may notice some temporary cloudiness or a chlorine odour – water quality is not affected, and it is still safe to drink.”
While repair work is complete, the investigation into what caused the break is ongoing, Metro Vancouver said, adding that “initial results” are expected next month.
“In terms of property repairs, insurance providers are responsible for compensating residents for their losses,” the statement reads.
“For strata buildings, the strata’s insurance provider is responsible for supporting building repairs. Metro Vancouver has provided opportunities for strata and personal insurance providers to participate in the investigation as we work to determine the cause of the break and responsibility.”
The pipe burst early in the morning of Friday, Feb. 14, flooding streets and prompting evacuations of several buildings on Francis Way and Jamieson Court.
Water flooded some buildings' electrical rooms, leading to power outages, and Columbia Street was closed between McBride Boulevard and Richmond Street for more than 24 hours.
Read more: Repair work, road closures ongoing after New Westminster water main break
“We recognize the continued challenges this situation has caused for impacted residents and sincerely appreciate your patience as we work through the next steps,” Metro Vancouver said Tuesday.
