WEST HOLLYWOOD—Crews with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power have made progress on repairing the water main that ruptured on Thursday, July 16, off of Sunset Boulevard on Holloway Drive. The ruptured water main created a massive sinkhole off Holloway, flooding the streets of West Hollywood. Sunset Boulevard remains closed between Sherburne Drive and San Vincente Boulevard.
Following the initial rupture, a new section was installed, which now replaces the 25-foot damaged water main. Although repairs have begun, residents continue to be negatively impacted by the water main break.
The original plan was for the water main to be fixed by the weekend. Residents can continue to expect traffic delays extending into the workweek, and some whose homes were affected by the water having to stay at hotels for a few more days until the project has been completed.
Crews must now pressurize the pipe, check it for leaks, disinfect it with chlorine, and test it to ensure it is safe for residents to consume. This must be completed before the trench, where the water main burst, is filled. The repair must also meet specific street standards and material requirements for West Hollywood.
The LADWP assures residents that the water is safe to drink, although some nearby buildings to the site may experience low water pressure as repairs continue. Those close to the affected site off Holloway in West Hollywood are being asked to conserve water.
While the water main is still under repair, the LADWP is committed to moving forward with more repairs for a long-term replacement project.
As essential repairs continue, the LADWP has had 200 personnel activated to the response and remains committed to meeting three critical factors: confirming pipe integrity and pressure resistance with no leaks, adhering to all required standards, and delivering clean, safe water to the community.
“This restoration effort is a complex, multi-step process involving rigorous testing and technical expertise. Extensive procedures such as verifying pipe integrity, conducting thorough pressure and leak assessments, and confirming water quality are essential to guarantee the safety and reliability our customers expect,” the LADWP stated on its website.
The pipe is currently being refilled, and pressure tested the LADWP noted. Crews are locating and sealing any leaks, ensuring that all repairs meet the highest safety and regulatory standards.
For ongoing updates, visit www.LADWPnews.com or call 1‑800‑DIAL‑DWP. For claims information, visit www.LADWP.com/Claims.
By Ryley Metten