Water Main Issues Along Highway 7 South Impact Residents
Oxford, MS – Residents living along Highway 7 South in Oxford found themselves facing another disruption in water service this week after a contractor accidentally struck a water main on Tuesday. This incident marks the second time in just two weeks that residents have been affected, leading to approximately two hours without water.
Details of the Incident
The contractor involved, TL Wallace, was engaged in relocating gas lines under a permit from the Mississippi Department of Transportation when the accident took place. General Manager of Oxford Utilities, Rob Neely, explained that this was not an isolated case, as the same contractor had hit another water line in the same vicinity on August 1.
“The boring contractor is required to spot utility lines when they cross with their operation,” said Neely. “In both instances, the location of the lines was marked accurately by Oxford Utilities.” However, during the most recent incident, an older 8-inch water line, which is nearly 50 years old, was mistakenly identified at a shallower depth. The contractor managed to go under this older line but ended up hitting the newer, deeper main line instead.
Residents Affected
The water outage affected many residents, stretching from the NMRC area to the intersection of South Lamar Boulevard and Highway 7, which includes neighborhoods like Windsor Falls Subdivision. Fortunately, Oxford Utilities employees worked diligently through the night, and water service was restored within the two-hour timeframe.
Concerns About Recurring Incidents
Rob Neely expressed concern about the increasing frequency of utility line damages, highlighting the impact on customers. “When contractors hit utility lines and are found liable for damage, we compile invoices and invoice them for the repair,” said Neely. He emphasized that enforcing responsibility is crucial, stating their intention to communicate their concerns to both the contractor and MDOT with hopes for improved caution in the future.
This situation brings up a larger issue of maintaining infrastructure and coordinating construction activities around existing utilities. Neely noted, “We expect that they work more carefully around important city facilities to prevent any further disturbances to the community.”
A Growing Concern Among Residents
For those living in the affected areas, these water outages can be incredibly inconvenient and disruptive. Many residents were understandably frustrated after dealing with similar outages only a short time ago. With two incidents occurring so closely together, it raises questions about the safety measures and planning involved in municipal projects.
Residents hope to see better communication and a more robust protocol to avoid such disruptions in the future. As the city of Oxford continues to grow and evolve, the integration of essential services, construction, and everyday life for residents remains a critical aspect of local governance.
Looking Ahead
As Oxford Utilities continues to address the aftermath of this incident, authorities urge residents to exercise patience and understanding. It is clear that ensuring the safety and reliability of utility services remains a top priority for city officials. They are committed to working collaboratively with contractors to minimize risks and prevent recurring issues that could affect the community.
In conclusion, with ongoing developments and construction projects in the area, it is vital for contractors, utility companies, and municipal authorities to maintain open lines of communication to safeguard the daily lives of residents in Oxford.
