MARGATE - According to an emergency robocall to residents at 9 a.m. Tuesday morning, the broken water main that affected water service throughout the lower portion of Margate has been repaired.
Crews from Perna Finnigan of Vineland were called in and worked through the night to fixed the leak by installing an in-line stop valve, which will allow water to flow through the system.
The 12-inch water main broke yesterday. According to Director of Public Works Pat Power, the line was installed in 1972 to service highrises on Atlantic Avenue.
"The ground gave way beneath it, probably because of all the rain we have been having," Power said.
Mayor Michael Collins said the contractor would continue to work on the line to replace a 20-foot section of pipe that cracked.
Water pressure will be restored to all areas of Margate througout the day. Those who live in high-rise buildings may still experience low water pressure.
"We anticipate this being corrected as the day progresses. If you have any issues with really low or no water pressure, please contact the Margate City Public Works Department at 609-822-5038," the message stated.
As water service is restored, residents may notice discoloration of the water. The discoloration does not pose any health risks, but residents should let the water run until it is clear. Avoid washing clothing, especially whites.
If the problem persists call the Public Works Department at 609-833-5038.
At 8:30 p.m., the city announced it is still experiencing problems with water pressure as a result of a water main break earlier on Monday.
A second emergency robocall placed to residents stated a contractor is on the way to fix the broken pipe.
Residents may be experiencing low or no water pressure. If the water is discolored, let it run until it is clear.
A major water main break in Margate may cause residents to lose water pressure or have no pressure at all, according to an emergency robocall placed to residents Monday afternoon at 3:45 p.m.
According to Fire Chief Dan Adams, the lower end of Margate has no water pressure at this time.
He enlisted mutual aid in the form of pumper trucks from fire departments in Scullville, Egg Harbor Township and Oceanville, Galloway Township so the department will have water in the event of a fire. There have been no fires reported, Adams said.
"We did that, just in case of a fire," he said.
https://youtu.be/TQvkbP_KLWo?si=ZxM6hiaZsQQidDG9
Crews are working to repair the break in the 14-inch line, which is located on Winchester Avenue near the Public Works Building on Benson Avenue. Streets around the break are flooded at this time and motorists should avoid the area.
Adams said the city would provide additional notifications to the public as the situation progresses.
This is breaking news. More information will be posted as it becomes available.
