Construction breaks waterline in east Shelby

Water rushes through the construction zone like a river Wednesday, next to the Fairfield, as the result of a waterline that was struck by construction crews. Chuck Thompson | Shelby Independent

Construction on a lot between The Fairfield Hotel and State Employees’ Credit Union caused a busted waterline late Wednesday morning.

According to City of Shelby officials, a contractor accidentally struck the waterline causing a temporary disruption of water service in the area.

City of Shelby responded, and water pressure was restored now to the majority of customers by earl afternoon.

Director of Water Resources Brian Wilson was on the scene and had no comment to The Shelby Independent, except he stated to wait for an official press release.

Site of the construction gusher Wednesday. Crews struck a 12 inch waterline, causing businesses and residents to lose water temporarily Wednesday, and causing the site to flood until the water was pumped out of the area. Chuck Thompson | Shelby Independent

A statement not long after, released by the City of Shelby, explained, “At this time, only a few businesses in the immediate vicinity of the break remain without water. Crews are actively working to complete repairs and restore full service as quickly as possible.”

The city suggests to anyone experiencing discoloration in your water to run your faucet until the coloration clears.

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At the Cleveland County Fairgrounds they confirmed their water was working adequately, except for the fact is was brown due to the waterline break. Fair officials assured the Shelby Independent The Fair was beginning on schedule Thursday, regardless of any issues.

The City of Shelby said updates would be provided about the waterline break, as new information becomes available.

More photos from the incident can be found on The Shelby Independent’s Facebook page.

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Chuck Thompson is a reporter for The Shelby Independent.