BALTIMORE — Department of Public Works crews discovered a sinkhole on the Montebello I Water Treatment Plant on Wednesday.
According to a statement released by DPW Director Jason Mitchell, the sinkhole resulted from a compromised 108" stormwater main installed in the 1880's, which exposed an 84" water main.
Mitchell also states that DPW are coordinating with state and local partners to stabilize the site swiftly so that the pipes can be secured, the sinkhole can be backfilled and water service can continue for citizens.
There is no timeframe for the filling of the sinkhole.
Baltimore City Councilwoman Odette Ramos released a statement on the sinkhole.
"DPW, along with crews from our nearby counties, are working diligently to stabilize the area where the water main is located," said Ramos. "I am very confident that the DPW team, the contractors, and partners working on this are excellent and we will have a good outcome."
In a recent statement from the DPW director, Jason Mitchell, he states that the DPW will continue to work alongside state and local partners to make repairs.
In addition, Mitchell says that some customers may experience lower than normal water pressure during this time.
“As a follow-up to earlier communication regarding the sinkhole at the Montebello I Water Treatment Plant (Montebello I) property, the Department of Public Works (DPW) assures the public that the Montebello I plant continues to deliver adequate and high-quality drinking water.
“DPW continues to test throughout the system to ensure we deliver high-quality water to our regional customers. Some customers may experience lower than normal water pressure during this period.
“DPW continues collaborating with our state and local partners to make repairs. From the onset of this issue, DPW has communicated consistently with our regulators, namely the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). MDE has committed to supporting DPW through the resolution of this incident.
“DPW and the entire Scott Administration remain committed to keeping residents and businesses informed and will provide regular updates as information becomes available.”
