Beginning this Monday evening, residents of Ingleside will be required to boil their water, marking a significant step in a major infrastructure project. This advisory is a precautionary measure linked to a substantial drainage system upgrade within the city.
The initiation of the water boil advisory coincides with a temporary water shutdown on selected streets starting at 10 p.m. This disruption is essential for the ongoing efforts to enhance the city’s drainage capabilities.
Brent Lewis, the City Manager of Ingleside, explains the necessity of this advisory in the context of a larger, transformative project. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality mandates such notifications to residents when water pressure drops below a certain level, which is anticipated as part of the upcoming work. This requirement aligns with the state’s health and safety regulations, ensuring that residents are informed and can take appropriate measures.
The focal point of these efforts is the Houghton Project, a $3.3 million drainage initiative funded by the Texas General Land Office. This project is critical for the city’s infrastructure and operates under a strict timeline, with completion required by April of the following year. One of this project’s key challenges is the need to lower a water main, a task complicated by the existing infrastructure. Currently, there is only a single valve near Highway 361 capable of shutting off water to the project area. However, this valve does not completely halt water flow but reduces pressure. To facilitate the necessary work, the main will be temporarily cut, and additional valves will be installed to better manage water flow in the future.
The duration of the water boil advisory is estimated to be between 24 and 48 hours, depending on how swiftly the main can be reinstated. Following this, the city will adhere to a rigorous water testing protocol. Samples will be collected across Ingleside and analyzed for bacterial contamination. The advisory will be lifted only after receiving precise results confirming the absence of bacteria.
While temporarily inconvenient, this situation represents a significant step towards improving Ingleside’s infrastructure. The city’s commitment to enhancing its drainage system while adhering to state regulations and ensuring public safety reflects a proactive approach to urban development and community well-being.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow all guidelines issued by the city during this period. This project, once completed, promises to offer long-term benefits, improving the quality of life and the resilience of Ingleside’s infrastructure against environmental challenges.