Update as of July 20, 2023: The Boil Water Advisory issued by Hastings Prince Edward Public Health has been lifted.
Emergency repair work continues on the primary water main serving all Trenton Water Service customers west of the Trent River.
On Monday, July 17, Quinte West Water/Wastewater staff discovered a significant water main break in the primary Trenton Water Service water main located under the Trent River beside the D. J. MacDonald Bridge in Trenton. On Tuesday, City staff engaged an underwater repair contractor to install a temporary repair clamp on the water main. Some customers experienced disruptions to water flow and pressure while the temporary repair work was completed. This repair work has stabilized the supply of water to customers in the affected service. However, the underwater location of the break may result in ongoing challenges until the water main is permanently repaired.
The Boil Water Advisory issued by Hastings Prince Edward Public Health on Tuesday, July 18 for Trenton Water Service customers west of the Trent River, remains in effect until the water running through the main meets provincial testing standards.
“City staff have been working around the clock to respond to this unforeseen situation, and maintain the safety of Quinte West’s water supply and distribution system,” says Mayor Jim Harrison. “We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as our teams continue repair work on this critical resource.”
With the temporary repair clamp now in place, work has begun to install a temporary water supply line over the D. J. MacDonald Bridge. This temporary water supply line will maintain water supply to Trenton Water Service customers west of the Trent River until the water main under the river is permanently repaired. The installation of the temporary water supply line over the bridge is expected to take approximately two weeks to complete.
“Installing the temporary water supply line over the D. J. MacDonald Bridge is a complex undertaking,” says Chris Angelo, Quinte West’s Director of Public Works. “As soon as we understood the magnitude of the break in the primary water main, the City began preparing for this safe and reliable method of maintaining water to Trenton Water Service customers west of the Trent River.”
More information about the Boil Water Advisory and access to City washroom, shower, and water refilling services is available at quintewest.ca.
If you experience low water pressure or water flow issues, please notify the City at 613-392-2841.
This is an evolving situation. Further updates will continue to be provided.