Possible Leak on Superior Street Adds to City's Problems

IRONWOOD, MI - Saturday, January 10, 2009 - Superior Street from Midland north has been closed. There are unconfirmed reports that a major water leak was discovered on Superior Street as the City's water system became pressurized. The Chronicle took this photo that shows a piece the City's heavy equipment running and ready to go, along with a "Road Closed" sign. Meanwhile fire crews are flushing hydrants throughout the City in an effort to remove air pockets that tend to develop when supply lines sit empty.

The boil advisory for City water remains in effect, and will likely stay in effect through at least Monday. The Michigan DEQ needs to test the water before the boil advisory can be lifted. That being said, it stands to reason that it is very likely that school will be canceled on Monday. The school lunch program and the schools drinking fountains both depend on reliable, clean water.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at the Ironwood Public Safety Department will re-open at 8:00 AM tomorrow Sunday morning. Drinking water is still available at the IPSD, and so are porta-potties. Residents are encouraged to continue to conserve water as much as possible, in an effort to allow the City's water supply to return to somewhat normal levels.

The majority of Ironwood's water supply system is quite antiquated, therefore additional leaks throughout the system can be expected. The City Staff and crew continue to do an exceptional job staying on top of the situation.

The Chronicle will provide updates as they become available.