FALLS CHURCH, VA. – Repairs to the 16-inch water main break that occurred at 5 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2006 are on schedule for completion at approximately 6 p.m.  Normal water pressure will be restored to all water customers affected by the break by approximately 9 p.m.



 
After repairs to the break are completed, customers may experience air in their lines.  This is normal.  The tiny air bubbles cause the water to appear milky, cloudy, or slightly discolored.  Customers should run cold water through their faucets until the water is clear and flows smoothly.
 
Water was restored with reduced pressure at 10 a.m. to most of the several thousand residential and commercial customers affected by the break that occurred at Route 123 (Dolley Madison Blvd.) and Old Meadow Road in McLean.  Customers affected by the break are in isolated areas west of I-495, south of Route 7 and Route 123, and north of Route 50.
 
The Lincoln Building (1700 Old Meadow Road) lost water pressure due to the break.  Water is expected to be restored, at a reduced rate, to the building by approximately 3:30 p.m.
 
Clyde’s Restaurant (8332 Leesburg Pike) and the Sunoco Gas Station (1957 Chain Bridge Road) will not have water pressure until approximately 7 p.m.
 
Crews are pumping water out of the affected area.  Traffic has been reduced to two northbound lanes on Route 123; southbound lanes are open.  Drivers are encouraged to find alternate routes.
 
Another update will be provided after repairs to the main have been completed this evening.