Guthrie Public Works crews continue to stay busy, but their workload has increased with the recent heavy rainfall, including an early start to their Sunday, after responding to multiple major water issues across the city.
At approximately 4:15 a.m. on Sunday, an old fire hydrant plug ruptured beneath the parking lot of a motel at the intersection of Oklahoma Avenue and Broad Street, sending water streaming into downtown streets. The hydrant was capped off, but the rupture launched part of the piping across the street. Thankfully, no injuries or property damage were reported. Water service was restored by 6 a.m. after the main was isolated.
Crews continued their morning with an emergency response to a nearby nursing home, where a 6-inch fire line rupture resulted in significant flooding throughout the building. Workers helped shut down the water line to stop the flooding and prevent further damage.
City officials also confirmed that a water main near Cottonwood Creek ruptured late last week due to elevated floodwaters. Most likely caused by debris in the river, and now city officials are working on a plan to replace the costly line. Related article: Water pressure restored on Guthrie’s west side after beleived elusive leak beneath river floodwaters
Cottonwood Creek is one of two major creek crossings for Guthrie’s water infrastructure for the town’s westside, and isolating the affected line has caused pressure disruptions across the distribution system.
Meanwhile, the city’s water plant staff has been working additional hours to meet increased demand. The recent incidents have required an uptick in chemical orders to keep pace with the increased distribution flow across the city’s water system.
City leaders praised the dedication of Public Works and water plant crews for their prompt responses and ongoing efforts to ensure residents have safe and reliable water.
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