Atlanta preps for major infrastructure overhaul one year after water main breaks

According to Axios Atlanta, Saturday marked one year since two major water main breaks on the same day highlighted a larger issue in the city of Atlanta. Since then, officials have been working on a long-term plan to upgrade Atlanta’s aging water infrastructure and prevent similar problems in the future.

In an interview with Axios, Atlanta chief strategy officer Peter Aman said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is about halfway an assessment of the city's drinking water system. The corps is reviewing data of past main breaks to determine which areas of the system are highest priority for construction and repairs. Aman also noted the corps' work should be done by the end of this year.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens stated in March that the costs to upgrade the city’s aging infrastructure could reach $2 billion, Axios reported.

Rate increases are being explored as one possible option to cover the project costs, causing concern for many residents who say that water/sewer rates are already at a high for the area. 

On May 31, 2024, two water main breaks occurred within hours of each other. Residents and business owners in the metro area were left without water, and many expressed frustration at the city's lack of communication in addressing the problem.

Now, Atlanta is dedicated to providing details to the public as soon as possible, utilizing AI technology to detect leaks and make repairs more quickly.

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