WHEELING - Public Works Director Rusty Jebbia said full service has been restored to most of those affected by a major water line break early this morning near Wheeling Park.
Jebbia said a 12-inch line ruptured at about 3:30 a.m., causing extensive sidewalk and road damage and water spewing from multiple locations across from the exit to the park. Utility crews isolated the break and shut off water from 1700 National Road to the Overlook Apartments at 1810 National Road, including about seven homes and the apartment complex, he said.
Crews were working on scene throughout the morning, and Jebbia said he wasn't certain how long the repair work would take. That stretch of National Road will be under a 48-hour boil order once water is restored, he noted.
Article Photos
City crews dig along National Road to repair a water break that occurred early this morning near Wheeling Park.
Photos by Scott McCloskey
Surrounding areas also experienced low water pressure, as Jebbia said the Springdale tank was drained to just one foot of water from a normal level of 14 feet, while the Patterson tank lost more than 12 feet of water, draining from 15.5 feet to just 3. Residents affected included those on higher elevations of Stamm's Lane, Atlas Road and the Elm Terrace area, but Jebbia said late this morning that everyone except those on the isolated block of National Road should have normal pressure restored.
The surrounding area is being served through a nearby booster pump and a 10-inch line that runs along the opposite side of the street but is connected to the 12-inch main.
Jebbia said it's unclear what caused the line to rupture.
The break occurred directly in front of the home of Harry Cline, whose driveway became a river of mud as the water rushed across his lawn. He was one of those without water this morning, but noted he has enough bottled water to see him through for a while.
Staff Writer Scott McCloskey contributed to this report.
