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Disruptive water main break in Newark
During the emergency, Newark's reservoir was drawn down to a dangerous level, and for the next two days (Friday and Saturday), the NYS Health Department has issued an advisory to all Newark residents and customers of Arcadia water districts 4, 5, and 6 to boil water used for drinking. Pending Department of Health approval, the boil water notice is in effect until Sunday, Dec. 7, 12 noon. Newark D.P.W. forces received a report of water coming out of the ground at the west entrance to T. Spencer Knight Park on Van Buren St. A 12' water main that crosses the Erie Canal had severed, causing low water pressure to Newark's north side. The Newark Fire Department's fire police were called to assist with traffic as village crews prepared to fix the 3' break. It was soon realized that a major potential disaster could develop if a 'working' fire was to occur anywhere in the village, especially north of the canal. Fire Chief Doug Velte invoked mutual aid with surrounding fire departments to assure that their tankers were ready for such an emergency. Velte also contacted the Newark Wayne Hospital to assist if needed, as a constant supply of water is needed to run the hospital's heating system. Newark Mayor Peter Blandino contacted news media to spread the word for the need to conserve water during the emergency. Village crews responded quickly to re-route supply lines and within 1 1/2 hours full pressure was restored to the entire Newark water system, including Arcadia districts 4, 5, and 6. Jim Bridgeman, Village Operations Manager, stressed that there are 3 mains that cross the Erie Canal to supply the north section of Newark, and Arcadia. Copyright
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