Water mandate lifted in Benicia

(KRON) — The almost week-long water conservation mandate for Benicia has officially been lifted.

Sarah Shawky, Benicia Deputy City Manager, made the breaking news announcement in a live interview Tuesday afternoon with KRON4’s Justine Waldman.

The city had issued a “critical water shortage” alert last Wednesday after its drinking water transmission line was severely damaged. Residents, businesses, schools and community organizations had been urged to immediately reduce their water usage.

“The repair itself was successful,” said Shawky. “The patch and weld held, and we are receiving water from our primary source again. It held even throughout all of the testing, and the phases to fully recharge the line. We are lifting the water conservation mandate.”

The damage happened near Goodyear Road and Morrow Lane.

“People, all residents, organizations, companies no longer need to conserve water anymore. And I want to say a tremendous thank you to our community just showing how resilient we are, and for following the orders in order to provide the city with a longer timeline. But the repair was successful, and the conservation mandate has been lifted.”