Press Releases

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) crews will perform an emergency test water valve closure on a 50” transmission main on S Claiborne Avenue and Leonidas Street to perform welding repairs. Weather permitting, SWBNO crews will begin closing the valve on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, beginning at 8:00p.m. This test water closure is expected to last for approximately 4 hours. This test closure is in preparation for a construction closure which will be scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, pending results of the test closure. 

This 50” water main supplements much of the water supply to New Orleans East and neighborhoods East of Elysian Fields Ave, therefore resulting in potential lower-than-normal water pressure in these locations. 

The 50" water main is one of six large transmission mains that provides water to the East Bank, which means there are redundancies in the water distribution system.

While a significant pressure drop is not anticipated, some customers may experience slightly lower than normal pressure, especially upper floors of multi-story buildings.

While the test closure and work are underway, crews will monitor water pressure throughout the city. If pressures dip below 20 psi, we will notify the public of the need for a precautionary boil water advisory.

Customers who are experiencing very low or no water pressure are directed to call our Emergency Call Center at 504-52-WATER; SWBNO is open every day, 24 hours a day to serve you.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience as we work to maintain and improve your water system.