On Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at approximately 2:30 p.m. a 3rd party directional boring contractor drilled into a 12” ductile iron water main located at the intersection of 11th Street and Pacific Avenue. This resulted in a massive water leak that caused localized flooding and the closure of 11th Street from Pacific Avenue to Laurel Avenue.
The City of Tillamook Public Works Department was able to perform a temporary repair to restore pressure to the affected customers in the area. Unfortunately, due to the type and location of the damage done by the directional boring company, the repair necessitates hiring a specialized contractor with the capability to perform this kind of onsite repair. As the City works to mitigate the damages done, it will require 11th Street from the intersection of Pacific Avenue to Laurel Avenue to remain closed to through traffic until further notice.
Unfortunately, the damage sustained to the City’s water main line resulted in potential contamination entering the water system in that area. Accordingly, the City worked with the State Health Authority and County Health Department to issue a boil water notice to the affected customers in that area. The City has also been working with all customers in the affected area to provide adequate water to meet both sanitary and potable (drinking) water needs. Once the repair is completed, required water tests will be conducted to ensure that the water meets the Oregon State Health Authority standards for safe drinking water. After the water is safe again, the City will notify all affected customers and lift the boil water
notice.
The City is committed to continuing to provide a high level of public service. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we try to mitigate this unfortunate incident as quickly and safely as we can. For any questions or concerns please contact Megan Kjenslee, Public Works Executive Assistant at (503) 812-5945 or the Public Works Department main number at (503) 842-2472, Opt. 9, or by email at publicworks@tillamookor.gov if you have any questions or concerns.