The city of Dallas has a worklist for the New Year that includes the extensive rehabilitation of streets and sidewalks and much-needed sewer overhauls. Recently, the city experienced a large sewer overflow, due to a pipeline collapse in a residential neighborhood. The estimated overflow was more than 300,000 gallons, making the upgrades even more imperative. The city is currently advising homeowner’s to use caution when using water supply wells. Preferably, use only water that has been distilled or boiled for at least one minute for all personal uses including drinking, cooking, and bathing. Residents with private water wells should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, prior to discontinuing distillation or boiling. In an effort to correct the flooding the city has sustained, as well as enhance the sewer system, the Sewer Rehabilitation Project was recently approved and is currently underway. The project will systematically address a portion of the city’s pipelining infrastructures which will include a 42-inch trunk line running along the west side of the city. The rehabilitation project is anticipated to continue through the year. Construction experts and the city’s engineering consultants are collaborating on a five-area plan for the upcoming repairs.
Looking for a volunteer opportunity in Dallas? The city has created an experimental and creative way for local residents to get involved. Volunteers throughout Dallas, as well as neighboring cities, will have the opportunity to collect and test water samples from water bodies just like the ones you find in your backyard. The results will then be made part of a statewide database for all residents of Texas to be able to monitor the results. It’ll be a fun way to spend time with your family, or perhaps even a means to get volunteer hours for a school requirement. Whatever the case may be, it will be an enjoyable learning experience!
