When temperatures fluctuate, the ground shifts and pipes can break. The City of Piqua Underground Utilities Division is in its busiest season for pipe repairs as winter brings sharp swings in temperatures.
The Underground Utilities team quickly repaired 11 water main breaks and responded to 66 reports of frozen meters or busted pipes between mid-January and mid-February. Nearly half of those calls came in overnight or on the weekends.
The division maintains two on-call employees 24 hours a day, including over holidays, in service to emergency needs. Additional employees respond as needed. While the frozen ground and cold air can cause challenges, the team rotates equipment and employees to ensure an efficient, safe repair.
Whenever possible, the Underground Utilities team conducts repairs while maintaining pressure in water pipes to avoid disruption of service to customers. As the Public Works Department plows streets for safe travel, the Underground Utilities Division works to repair the pipes under the streets for reliable water service to Piqua customers.
As temperature fluctuations continue through the remainder of the winter season, the City of Piqua Underground Utilities team stands ready to tackle any further issues that arise.
For additional information about the Utilities Department, visit piquaoh.gov/utilities.
