City needs residents’ help identifying and reporting leaks.
The City of Killeen is working diligently to restore water services to residents following the extreme freeze over the last week. The water supply the City is receiving from Bell County WCID#1 has increased significantly; however, private property leaks are depleting the supply received. The City needs all residents to check their own properties for leaks as soon as possible and to report them immediately to 254-501-6320 or wsoperations@killeentexas.gov. We also ask that residents report leaks they see in their neighborhoods.
The City has multiple crews responding to resident reports of leaks. Crews turn off the water to the property to give time for a repair to be made. Ninety percent of the leaks are broken backflow devices related to outdoor sprinkler systems. Private property leak repairs can be made by a plumber or backflow device repairs can be made by a backflow tester.
The City’s water infrastructure is in proper repair, but demand is outpacing supply and not allowing water levels to rise and pressure to recover. The City has not turned off any water service except that which was necessary to repair a leak. Until private property leaks can be significantly reduced, all residents will continue to experience water service issues. Recovery can be rapid if everyone works together.
The limited water supply has reduced water levels and services to an emergency situation. Stage 5 water restrictions remain in place. Water usage should be limited to essential purposes only until further notice. It is no longer necessary to drip faucets.
The boil water notice issued February 17 remains in effect throughout the city as a precaution. All water should be boiled prior to consumption until tests confirm no contamination occurred. We understand that many houses have water but remain without power. Please be resourceful and reach out to neighbors or friends with power, boil water on outdoor grills or heating devices or utilize networks like churches for assistance.
The City has opened a water filling station for residents without water service at 805 W. Jasper Drive. It is open today until 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents must bring their own containers to fill, and amounts may be limited depending on demand. All water received must be boiled prior to consumption. Additional locations are planned and will be announced soon.
Water is an essential service, and the City of Killeen is working diligently to restore it. The speed of recovery depends on each part of the water system working in concert. The public’s adherence to water restrictions and other orders will speed this recovery for the entire community.