Utilities report: February had no sewer breaks; localized boil-water advisory issued during 24-inch main repair, new plant pilot to test corrosion inhibitors

City utilities staff told the Fort Lauderdale Infrastructure Advisory Board that February recorded no sewer breaks and that an isolated water-main failure prompted a localized boil-water advisory while repairs continue.

A utilities speaker said the significant break involved a large prestressed concrete cylinder pipe and that the contractor mobilized to make repairs but was awaiting a component expected within 24–48 hours; repair completion was described as imminent and the boil advisory applied to two properties and a plaza in the affected area. Staff said water service remained available and that valve isolation limited pressure drops and broader service interruptions.

Board members expressed concern about long-standing colored-water complaints and asked how the new water treatment plant will affect distribution systems with old cast-iron mains. A retired civil engineer on the board cautioned that color removed at the plant can reappear downstream where old mains remain in the distribution system. City technical staff said the new plant will include a pilot to test orthophosphate and corrosion-inhibitor chemistry to reduce discolored water during the transition. The pilot is scheduled to run for several months before the plant is fully commissioned and will include monitoring coupons and water-quality data.

Why it matters: A large water-main break and a boil-water advisory, even if limited, are immediate service events that require public notification and accurate tracking. The board asked staff for regular reporting on water-main incidents, boil advisories and the pilot’s results to understand potential distribution impacts once the new plant comes online.

Next steps: Staff will report repair progress for the break, provide data on the pilot study once available, and include water-main and bond-funded project tracking in upcoming briefings to the board.