A main line that provides water for the west side of LaVergne malfunctioned on Friday (10/7/2011), according to public works officials. A repair to a break in the 18-inch line located on Mason Road was made, but a second malfunction occurred Saturday (10/8/2011). 

“This one is more serious for several reasons,” said City Administrator Steve Mayer.  “The loss of water in the line means the water level is dropping rapidly in the storage tank on Sanford Knob. The tank provides water for the west side of LaVergne.” 

Area fire departments have been notified to have water tankers available should a serious structure fire occur at a residence or business, especially as the water in storage reaches the critical level, impeding water pressure. 

City officials are carefully monitoring the water level at Sanford Knob, but need the help of residents and businesses in the compromised area. They request minimal use of water throughout the weekend, including lawn watering, car washing, and filling swimming pools. Additionally, irrigation functions have been disabled at several industrial sites until the water tank levels return to normal.

Ten neighborhoods are being asked to minimize their water use, including McFarlin Pointe, Pinnacle Point, Summit View, Walnut Ridge, Farmingdale, Dove Creek, Woodland Hills, Woodsong, and Ivy Pointe. Additionally, the south and west portions of LaVergne, including residences alongBlair RoadandWaldron Road, are asked to conserve water.

Crews are on the scene installing a temporary emergency pump to bypass the problem area. Once the bypass is complete, the area of disrepair will be drained to determine if the malfunction is caused by another break, which would then be repaired.

“While we hope to fix the problem today, it may take several days for the tank to refill,” said Mayer.