After days of bitter cold and lingering snow, the City of Columbus is ramping up its response to Winter Storm Fern with $1.7 million in emergency funding aimed at keeping water flowing and streets passable.
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther authorized $1.5 million this week to expand Columbus Water and Power’s ability to repair water main breaks across the city. That funding comes on top of $200,000 approved last week to bring in additional outside contractors to help clear snow from city streets.
The prolonged stretch of sub-freezing temperatures has taken a toll on Columbus’ underground infrastructure.
City officials say at least 55 water line breaks have been reported so far, with frozen ground and snow-covered streets making repairs slower and more difficult than usual. The volume of breaks has stretched existing Water and Power crews beyond normal capacity.
The newly approved funds will allow the department to contract with qualified construction vendors to assist with repairs and help restore service more quickly in affected neighborhoods. The money will come from the Water Operating Fund.
City crews are prioritizing repairs based on public safety concerns and the number of residents impacted. Officials are asking anyone experiencing water service issues to report them to 311 so crews can respond as efficiently as possible.
The city says additional updates will be shared as repair work continues and conditions improve.
