City faces water line crisis amid ongoing construction chaos

During a recent government meeting, officials addressed ongoing issues with water leaks and infrastructure maintenance in the area, particularly highlighting the challenges posed by aging copper service lines. The discussion revealed that multiple towns, including Parksburg, are experiencing similar problems, exacerbated by the current drought conditions.

One significant leak was reported on Fourth Avenue, which has since been repaired. Officials noted that the workforce is currently at full capacity, with plans to begin mowing at Pond Run in early September. The team is prepared for the upcoming winter months, with new equipment ready for maintenance tasks.

Concerns were raised regarding ongoing gas projects, which are expected to continue for another year. These projects have reportedly caused approximately 30 leaks in service lines, primarily due to the impact of construction activities on existing infrastructure. Despite the disruptions, officials expressed satisfaction with the contractors' progress and cooperation.

The meeting also touched on recent paving projects, with officials noting improvements on several streets, including 24th and 46th Streets. However, a minor incident occurred when a contractor parked equipment without permission on a church parking lot, leading to community concerns. The contractor has since apologized and restored the parking lot, which has been well-received by the church.

Additionally, officials discussed the status of a vac truck that has been out of service due to mechanical issues. After evaluating repair options, it was decided to invest in a new pump rather than attempting to rebuild the old one, which was deemed unreliable. The total cost for repairs and the new pump is estimated at $20,000, a fraction of the cost of a new replacement truck, which could exceed $380,000.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of addressing infrastructure challenges while balancing ongoing construction projects and community needs.