Utility crews credited with averting boil‑water notice after Osage chlorine leak; distribution team restores service after 8‑inch main break

Amarillo city officials publicly thanked utility teams July 28 for two separate emergencies that could have affected public health.

City staff described a June 27 chlorine leak at the Osage water treatment plant detected by alarm systems in the chlorine room. According to the presentation, crews and the Amarillo Fire Department HAZMAT team located and isolated the source in a large chlorine tank, then worked roughly seven hours to troubleshoot mechanical problems in the chlorine feed system. Staff said they were able to resume injecting chlorine, maintain regulatory residuals, and avoid issuing a boil‑water notice.

Separately, the water distribution team responded to an after‑hours 8‑inch main break caused by a contractor bore. Crews worked through the night and into the following day—some staff reportedly remained on site for 18 hours in extreme heat—to isolate and repair the line and restore service. Officials said restoring service just before a forced inmate transfer was required averted a major public‑safety and logistics problem for Randall County detention facilities.

Council and management publicly recognized the teams for their rapid response. The presentation named utility staff leaders Shawn Beech and William Johnson and noted City Manager Grayson Path and others visited the site to assess response and coordinate follow‑up. Council asked staff to share lessons learned and ensure aging chlorine feed equipment is replaced as previously authorized to avoid future risk.