SWBNO Provides Update on Killdeer Street 12-Inch Water Main Repair

NEW ORLEANS — The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) is providing an update on the 12-inch water main break and tree removal in the 1400 block of Killdeer Street in Lake Terrace. 

Background
SWBNO crews began repair work at this location on August 19th in response to a reported water main leak. Crews excavated at the location of the leak and found that tree roots had grown around the 12-inch water main, making a direct point repair unsafe. 

The following day, crews returned to the site and determined the best course of action was to reroute the line around the tree, and the necessary parts were ordered to complete the repair. Unfortunately, the water leak could not be stopped without turning off water to several blocks, due to the configuration of water valves in the area. 

On the morning of September 1st, the tree fell over, adding complexity to the repair and prompting the team to bring in a contractor to safely remove it and continue working at the site. 

Current Status
The broken section of the 12-inch water main was capped on September 1st to stop the active leak. This required shutting service off temporarily to residents on Killdeer Street between Paris Avenue and St. Bernard Avenue. Service was restored to the area on the evening of September 1st, and the affected home currently has service. 

Repairing the main line will entail replacing the damaged section of the 12-inch water main. Tree removal is underway, and crews plan to install the new pipe on September 3rd. Additional steps are required and underway before the line can be safely returned to service. SWBNO expects the worksite to reach full completion by early to mid-next week, weather permitting. 

SWBNO has had direct contact with the affected resident and understands the impact this situation has had on them and their property. SWBNO is covering the cost of tree removal and site restoration, and the department's Claims division will work with the resident throughout the process.