Three gate valves in the Quemazon subdivision sprung leaks recently. The rushing water of the first two and subsequent repairs destroyed a section of roadway. Los Alamos County Department of Public Utilities (DPU) and the Los Alamos County Traffic and Streets Division collaborated on a plan to fix the road beginning Monday, May 6, and lasting for two weeks.
Week one (5/6-5/10): Road grading and soil compaction in preparation for asphalt
Week two (5/13-5/17): Paving and curb/gutter replacements
The work zone, which is on Quemazon between Tranquilo and Corona, will be closed to through traffic for the duration of the repair. Traffic can be detoured through Tranquilo and Corona. Drivers are asked to exercise caution near the work zone.
The water breaks are due to corrosion on the underground piping system. DPU staff has developed a plan to proactively replace valve hardware in the subdivision as the pressure impact of repairs increases the likelihood of breaks to neighboring valves. While the valves themselves are still in good condition, the bolts and other hardware holding them together are corroding. Stainless steel replacements for these items are on order and DPU water crews are putting other preventive measures in place to try to prevent additional leaks.
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