FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2021
CITY OF JACKSON UPDATE FOR SUNDAY EVENING
(JACKSON, MS) – The City of Jackson is issuing the following updates for Sunday, March 14, 2021, related to the ongoing water crisis and recovery efforts being made as a result of February’s winter weather:
WATER RESTORATION
- Overall, today was another good day with water pressure staying around 87 psi and tanks steadily continuing to fill. We had hoped to begin delivering surface water samples to the Mississippi State Health Department (MSHD) today, but, it looks like the first samples will be delivered tomorrow for testing.
- We are gauging progress by measuring the psi (pounds per square inch) in the water distribution system. The goal is to reach ~ 90 psi at OB Curtis WTP and ~80 psi at JH Fewell WTP. When the winter weather came through, psi dropped to 37 resulting in water outages throughout the City of Jackson and City of Byram.
- We feel confident that water service has been largely restored throughout Jackson. Any remaining incidents of low/no water pressure are likely localized meter issues or broken pipes. We encourage residents to continue calling 311 if they are having any issues so we can investigate.
- While most have their water back, a precautionary boil water notice is still in effect for all 43K surface water connections in Jackson. We will need to collect and submit 120 good samples to MSHD from various locations across Jackson for two consecutive days in order to receive clearance to lift the boil water notice.
- On Wednesday, March 10, the City of Jackson officially lifted the precautionary boil water notice on its 16K well water connections served by the Jackson Maddox Well System. This primarily impacts residents in South Jackson, City of Byram and City of Terry in the following zip codes:
- 39170
- 39212
- 39154
- 39209-Jackson Customers Off Maddox and Wiggins Road
- 39272-Byram Customers on the West Side of I-55 South
- Reports of new water main breaks/leaks have tapered off to a normal cadence. Our crews continue to work through the list of reported water main breaks/leaks since February’s winter storms came through. An updated list will be provided on Monday. Please continue to report any visible water leaks to 311.
- In addition to 311, residents can also call 601-960-1111 or 601-960-1778 to report low/no water pressure. All water meter issues should be directed to 601-960-2000.
HOW TO HELP
- Since the onset of this crisis, many have asked how they can help support the residents of Jackson. The City’s Department of Constituent Services is helping to coordinate offers of support and can be reached at 601-960-2324 or 601-960-1835.
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- At this time, the City of Jackson has identified the following key needs for residents:
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o Bottled Water
o 1 Gallon Jugs of Water (Drinking and Distilled)
o Hand Sanitizing Wipes
o Flushable Wipes
o Hygiene Items (Soap, Hand Soap)
o PPE (face masks, hand sanitizer)
o Utility Assistance
o Gift Certificates for groceries
o Debris Removal (for elderly and disabled residents)
WSBA BILLING ADJUSTMENTS FOR REPAIRS
- Citizens who have experienced a significant leak or loss of water due to a plumbing issue or busted pipes during this crisis should retain copies of the plumbing statements upon repair to provide to WSBA for consideration of an adjustment to your bill.
- To qualify for a leak adjustment, simply bring a copy of your plumbing receipt or a receipt for parts purchased to the Applications Counter at WSBA. One of our customer services representatives will be happy to assist you. Please call 601-960-2000 for any additional information.
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