A Salt Lake City resident reported a steady water leak near 600 South and 500 West that has been running for over two months, according to a September 5 report. David Bourdon, a local resident, stated he first noticed the flow several weeks ago and reported it to the city, noting frustration regarding water conservation efforts while this leak persists.
Salt Lake City Public Utilities confirmed Friday that the leak consists of treated drinking water. Jason Brown, Deputy Director at Public Utilities, said the leak has not been treated as a major water main break because it is controlled and has not shut down the roadway or created an immediate emergency. Brown noted that the department must triage leaks based on the volume of work required in other areas. The department estimated the water loss is roughly equivalent to two or three garden hoses running continuously.
The location of the leak has complicated repair efforts because it sits within a Utah Department of Transportation right-of-way along 600 South, a heavily traveled route into downtown Salt Lake City. Repairs require access to two lanes. UDOT spokesperson John Gleason stated that daytime restrictions are designed to maintain traffic flow during peak commute periods, though these restrictions do not apply overnight or on weekends. A UDOT inspector identified the leak and notified the city while working on a nearby Rocky Mountain Power project.
Public Utilities plans to relocate the leaking valve to allow for easier access in the future, rather than simply patching the problem. The department attributed the failed valve to aging infrastructure. Repairs are scheduled to begin Sept. 14. While the leak is located along the 500 West Granary District corridor designated for future improvements, the specific pipe involved is not part of that project.
