Central Montana Times

The City of Great Falls in Montana faced a water main break on Sunday, March 23rd, near Chowen Springs Park at 801 17th St. S. The Public Works department managed the situation by diverting the water into Chowen Springs Park, which serves as a natural stormwater detention pond, until repairs were completed. By 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, the water main was fixed and functioning normally.

A water main is an underground pipe responsible for delivering water within a service area. When these pipes develop holes or cracks, usually due to external corrosion from age and corrosive soils, water can escape to the surface under pressure until repairs are made.

The break was discovered around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday morning. Initially, the city reduced the water flow to maintain supply while planning repairs for Monday morning. However, by 7:00 a.m., residents reported having no water. Attempts to adjust the flow were unsuccessful without risking further damage. Consequently, a full crew was called in to locate underground utility lines and begin digging at approximately 12:00 p.m., with repairs concluding at 4:30 p.m.

"The City of Great Falls appreciates everyone’s patience and understanding as the water main was being repaired," stated Jake McKenna, Utilities System Manager. For further inquiries about this incident, residents are encouraged to contact Jake McKenna at 406-727-8045.