Crews Repair Major Water Main Breaks in Paterson, Alameda Amid Flooding

Multiple water main breaks have recently impacted residents and businesses in Paterson, New Jersey, and Alameda, California. In Paterson, crews are repairing a significant 42-inch water main break while pausing a large-scale water system flushing program that was intended to improve water quality and lift boil water advisories; the advisory remains in effect for parts of Paterson and nearby boroughs. The Passaic Valley Water Commission is working to restore service to affected areas, using line stops to minimize customer impact. Meanwhile, Alameda experienced a 12-inch water main break on an 83-year-old cast iron pipe near Webster Street, causing flooding, sinkholes, and street closures; crews worked overnight to stop the leak and have since begun street restoration and paving. Local officials have been closely coordinating with impacted businesses and a nursing home to ensure safety and water supply. Both incidents highlight ongoing challenges with aging water infrastructure and the efforts to mitigate disruptions and maintain water quality.