Water line break closes Aquarena Springs Bridge

Posted by Jayme Blaschke
Office of Media Relations
July 22, 2016

A water line break Friday morning has closed Aquarena Springs Drive adjacent to the bridge over the San Marcos River and caused significant damage to the roadway. Traffic is being detoured to Charles Austin Drive and University Drive.

The break occurred at 6 a.m. beneath Aquarena Springs Drive near the parking lot for Sewell Park and was isolated by City water/wastewater employees by 7:30 a.m. City officials estimate 150,000 gallons of water were released from the break. There is no indication of environmental impact to the river.

City crews are now working to repair the broken 10-inch, 80-year-old cast iron water line. The City is also coordinating with the Texas Department of Transportation to repair the damaged roadway. Pavement repairs are underway, and the roadway will be open as soon as soon as possible.

TxDOT will inspect the bridge for damage, but initial reports indicate it appears undamaged.

City employees will survey the river downstream of the break to ensure environmental conditions are normal. The river remains open for recreation.

The City is investigating the cause of the water line break.