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SAWS Ends Bulk Water Distribution In San Antonio

SAWS
SAWS, Schertz and Seguin began pumping drought-proof water at Carrizo Aquifer in 2014.

SAWS officials announced they will close bulk water distribution sites on March 4 at 5 p.m. due to a drop in traffic. The attribute the low demand to water being restored to the entire service area.

"The City will continue to provide bottled water delivery to vulnerable residents including homebound seniors and apartment complexes with no drinking water through March 6, 2021. Delivery availability is limited but can be requested by calling 311," statement from the City of San Antonio said.

"San Antonio Water System is accepting applications from customers who need assistance making repairs to quickly restore service and minimize water loss. Customers can apply for the Customer Pipe Repair (CPR) program online at saws.org/CPR. They can also get help filing an application by calling 210-233-FIXX (3499) or by emailing to CPR-SA@saws.org. Spanish language assistance is available by phone or email."

Previously reported on Feb. 19

The San Antonio Water System is opening water distribution centers at pump stations across the city starting Friday. Residents are asked to bring their own jugs and there is a 5-gallon limit per vehicle.

"As a precaution, the water should be boiled before drinking or used in cooking, mirroring thecurrent boil water notice advisory for the city," a statement from SAWS said.

The hours are Friday from noon to 6 p.m., and from every day moving forward from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice. The locations are:

  • 13655 O’Connor Road
  • 254 Seale Road
  • 615 E. Theo Ave.
  • 8910 Jones Maltsberger
  • 7172 Hausman Road
  • 10349 Military Drive West
  • 1208 S. Loop 1604 West

About 40% of SAW’s capacity has no pressure or little pressure and may have sprung 100,000 leaks during the winter blitz that hit the city.

SAWS President and CEO Robert Puente could not say how many days the water system would be crippled or how long the boil water notice stays in effect, but he says it’s important for everyone to find leaks as the weather thaws and to stop them

“We have to have these leaks taken care of, so our pressure builds up so we can eventually lift the boil water notice,” he said.

Puente says San Antonians will not be billed for water lost due to broken pipes.

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