The city of Novi has issued a boil water advisory following a significant water main break that occurred on September 25. The break, in a 42-inch transmission main line along 14 Mile Road near M-5, led to a substantial loss of water pressure affecting not only Novi’s 67,000 residents but also those in neighboring Wixom, Commerce Township, and Walled Lake.
Local authorities are asking residents to conserve water by limiting non-essential use and avoid lawn watering during this period. Efforts by the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) crews are underway to manage the situation. So far, four of the seven critical valves have been closed to address the break, with continuous work planned into the night if necessary to complete the task and reestablish water pressure through alternative systems.
To aid residents, non-drinkable water can be collected at the Department of Public Works on Lee BeGole Drive until 9 p.m. on September 25. This water is intended strictly for toilet flushing and not for consumption or bathing, and residents must bring their own containers.
For those needing potable water, it is available at ITC Community Sports Park’s soccer concession stand on Eight Mile Road. This water, sourced from a well, is suitable for drinking and cooking. Like the non-potable water, residents need to provide their own containers for collection.
The city has cautioned that resolving such a large-scale break will take several hours. Following the restoration of water service, the impacted areas will remain under a boil water advisory as a safety precaution. Residents are advised to stay tuned for further updates from city officials regarding the ongoing situation and restoration efforts.
This situation underscores the importance of infrastructure maintenance and preparedness in managing unexpected utility disruptions to ensure community safety and resilience.