Water Department Updates - OCT 7, 2024 - County Briefing

Water Department Update: Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts – October 7, 2024

This recap summarizes the County Briefing held on October 7, 2024, focusing on updates from the Water Department regarding recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and subsequent flooding. The meeting provided a detailed overview of the challenges, progress made, and ongoing work to restore Asheville’s water system. No formal votes were taken; this was an informational briefing intended to keep the public informed.

The primary focus of the meeting was on restoring the North Fork water system, Asheville’s main source of drinking water, and repairing damage to the broader distribution network. Initial assessments began on September 30th, with city and partner teams rapidly mobilizing to assess the damage. A major priority is the reconstruction of a bypass line at North Fork, which officials aim to complete within 72 hours. Drone footage and ground-level images were presented, showcasing the work of contractors T&K Utilities and Tanoka as they carefully install joints within a secure "shoring box" to ensure worker safety. The process is being done in stages, requiring stabilization and meticulous installation of each section.

A significant challenge highlighted during the meeting was the condition of the North Fork Reservoir, now described as having water with a high turbidity – resembling "chocolate milk" due to sediment stirred up by the floodwaters. Officials are closely monitoring the natural settling process of this sediment and exploring options, with assistance from EPA and FEMA officials, for delivering non-potable water if needed. The Mills River plant is currently fully operational and functioning well, allowing for full pressurization of the Asheville-Southern Buncombe distribution area. Residents in this area are strongly encouraged to conserve water as system repairs continue.

Beyond the North Fork, crews are actively repairing primary transmission lines, working in coordination with NCDOT. A unique aspect of the recovery effort is the need for on-the-spot engineering design as repairs are made, a departure from standard procedures. Repairs are being sequenced strategically, starting closest to the North Fork Water Treatment Plant and working outwards as water pressure is restored. The City of Asheville's Water Department has 181 employees dedicated to these recovery efforts, and officials anticipate discovering additional breaks and leaks as the system is further pressurized.

What This Means for You:

The meeting conveyed a message of cautious optimism, acknowledging significant progress while emphasizing that the restoration process will be ongoing. Residents are asked to continue practicing water conservation, even as portions of the system return to normal operation. As pressure is restored throughout the distribution network, officials anticipate identifying additional issues that require attention.

Looking Ahead:

The following action items will guide the Water Department’s efforts in the coming days:

• Complete North Fork Bypass Line: The immediate priority is finishing this critical bypass within 72 hours.
• Monitor Reservoir Turbidity: Officials will continue to track sediment settling in the North Fork Reservoir, preparing for filtration as conditions allow.
• Repair Distribution System Leaks: Crews will continue to identify and repair leaks and breaks as the system is pressurized.
• Develop Contingency Plans: The department will finalize plans for delivering non-potable water if necessary.
• Collaborate with Experts: Ongoing coordination with EPA and FEMA officials will provide valuable technical assistance.

For further information, residents are encouraged to visit the City of Asheville's website or contact the Water Department directly.