The City of Alpine has implemented Stage 4 — Critical Water Shortage Conditions following a critical failure within the municipal well system that officials say is affecting the city’s water supply and distribution capabilities.
City officials announced the emergency restrictions Tuesday following discussions during the May 5 Alpine City Council meeting regarding operational impacts, response efforts and possible long-term solutions for the city’s water infrastructure.
According to the city, emergency crews worked overnight to respond to the situation, including using fire apparatus to transport water in an effort to maintain system levels. Officials said demand continues to exceed available supply in portions of the system, particularly on the west side of the community, which is supplied through storage tanks receiving water from the Sunny Glen well field.
The city said all municipal wells remain operational except Roberts Well No. 3. Water well experts advised the city that Roberts Well No. 3 should be permanently plugged and abandoned because of the condition of the well.
Officials said the city plans to move forward with drilling a replacement well, a process expected to take approximately four to six weeks and intended to help stabilize long-term water system reliability.
Under the Stage 4 restrictions, residents and businesses are being asked to immediately conserve water and comply with mandatory restrictions outlined in the city’s drought contingency plan.
The restrictions include:
- No outdoor irrigation or landscape watering;
- No washing of vehicles, driveways, sidewalks or other paved surfaces;
- No filling or refilling swimming pools, hot tubs or ornamental fountains;
- Immediate repair of water leaks where possible; and
- Limiting water use to essential health and safety needs only.
Residents may experience reduced water pressure or temporary service interruptions as crews work to manage available supply and maintain system integrity, according to the city.
City officials said they are continuing to work with utility personnel, technical experts, emergency management officials and regional partners to stabilize the system and restore normal operations as quickly as possible.
The city encouraged residents to monitor official City of Alpine communication channels for additional updates.
