DETROIT – Hundreds of people were displaced seven days after a water main break near Beard and Rowan streets in southwest Detroit as recovery efforts tackled the cleanup and repairs.
On Monday (Feb. 24), the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) announced it made strides in repairing the damage, but the community still faces a long road to recovery.
Crews installed and connected a 15-foot segment of replacement pipe on Friday, according to the update.
GLWA anticipates completing repairs and testing the water main by the end of the week of March 3.
Community support and challenges
Recently, a pop-up distribution center began providing essential supplies to those living in the affected neighborhoods.
Jimmy Rios said the site, supported by a coalition of local nonprofits, aims to assist residents without transportation and those who are hesitant to seek outside help.
“We overcome all of those barriers as far as trust because we are friends and neighbors,” the father said.
Southwest Detroit water main break: Here’s how many basements have been cleared so far
Rios is a plumber by trade and doesn’t consider himself an advocate. He felt he had to answer a call.
He said approximately 500 people benefited from the site’s resources on Sunday.
Personal stories of resilience
Residents like Arturo Olivares have opened their homes to share their experiences. Olivares' basement took on several feet of water, nearly reaching the first floor.
“Right here,” he said while pointing at the water line mark. “Look at the line right here, like eight inches above the door.”
His truck, power tools, and moped were also damaged in the garage.
Meanwhile, other residents had to find creative solutions to manage the damage following the overnight break on Feb. 17.
Luis Lara, translating for his grandparents, shared how they used buckets and plastic bags to plug the holes in the basement walls. The family said they lost some of their appliances but still consider themselves fortunate for the assistance they received from the city.
City’s response and ongoing efforts
The city of Detroit has been actively involved in the cleanup process, clearing debris from 27 basements and working to restore essential services. More than 660 people are currently staying in hotels, with plans to begin repairs on furnaces, boilers, and water heaters soon.
