(October 29, 2008, 5:30 p.m.)---Charleston Water System has completed repairs on the 20-inch water main that crosses the Charleston Harbor and provides Sullivan's Island and the Isle of Palms with drinking water.
The pipe was disinfected and flushed before it was put back into service late Wednesday afternoon. The transition required reversing the flow of water through some pipes, which can dislodge mineral deposits and sometimes cause discolored water. Residents who experience discolored water should run their taps until the water becomes clear.
The outdoor watering restrictions issued by both islands have been lifted, so residents may resume outdoor watering. During the month-long repair, the Isle of Palms provided drinking water to both islands from its wells.
"This was one of the most challenging pipe repairs we've ever dealt with," said Andy Fairey, Charleston Water System's Chief Operating Officer. "We're thankful to the Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island for working closely with us over the last month and happy the repair is complete." Late last month Charleston Water System discovered the pipe was leaking and found it had failed at two welded joints about seventy feet off the coast of Fort Johnson. The underwater repair took five weeks to complete.
The water main has been in service since 1995.
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