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RICHMOND, Va. – The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has successfully completed the repairs and compliance testing of the damaged section of 36-inch water main that was isolated on July 3.
Crews successfully repaired the 36-inch water main in the canal by replacing the damaged section. Subsequent pressure testing, disinfection and water quality sampling to verify the integrity of the pipe and ensure it meets all regulatory requirements have all been completed. DPU will return the section of pipe to service on Monday. This will allow a full contingent of staff to be available to meet the needs of system and our customers.
“This was our first significant service interruption since the crisis of January 2025, and our frontline teams worked around the clock to ensure our neighbors maintained access to essential life-sustaining resources,” said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. "Aging infrastructure is a reality here in Richmond and across the country. Despite obvious challenges, our teams were able to address the problem quickly and effectively. For that, I am equally proud and grateful.”
“I’m pleased that our team successfully completed major repair and will be returning the full length of the 36-inch water main to service,” remarks Scott Morris, Director of the Department of Public Utilities. “This effort reflects the strength of our operating processes and procedures that keep a 100+ year old system running reliably. Completing this repair ahead of schedule and faster than the previous two repairs is a testament to our continued improvement and dedication.”
The replaced section of water main was near the end of its useful life and had already been identified for replacement through DPU's 10-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which prioritizes investments that strengthen the reliability and resilience of Richmond's water system.
About The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities
The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities provides natural gas, water, wastewater, stormwater and streetlight services to more than 500,000 customers in the Richmond metropolitan area. DPU is committed to safety, reliability and innovation in delivering essential utility services that support the city’s residents, businesses and environment.
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