Shreveport Water System Falls Short of State Evaluation Standard
What You Need to Know
A state-issued report recently revealed that the City of Shreveport’s water system has received a failing grade, primarily due to challenges related to infrastructure rather than water quality issues. The 2023 Community Public Water System Grades, released by the Louisiana Department of Health in May, awarded Shreveport Water System with an unfavorable F grade.
Every community water system is assessed for its capability to provide safe drinking water to the public. The Shreveport evaluation considered seven categories, with the condition of its infrastructure playing a significant role in the overall grade. Shreveport is part of the unfortunate 15% of water systems that received a D or F grade during the 2023 grading period.
Key Points of Concern and Actions Taken
Lyman McKellar, Department of Water and Sewerage marketing and communications manager, indicated six key concerns contributing to the unsatisfactory grade. However, he assured that these are being resolved, and the city’s water is 100% safe for consumption.
Deteriorating Water Distribution Storage Tanks
The city’s water storage tanks require significant repairs and painting. One contract has been approved for these reforms, whilst others are out for bids.
Leaky Pipes
The presence of leaky pipes resulted in points being deducted. These leaks were repaired and reported to the Louisiana Department of Health at the start of the year, but they were not included in the 2023 grading period.
Generators
Specific sites lacking generators negatively affected the city’s water grade. The City received a grant, aggregated with additional funds allocated by Mayor Tom Arceneaux, to purchase and install generators.
Ozone System Upgrade
Uneven water quality, traceable to ozone system equipment issues, was another problem. Supply chain delays initially impaired the new system installation. Nevertheless, it is now fully operational, and minor water quality issues have been resolved since its operative commencement.
Algae Blooms
An algae bloom last summer generated several complaints. However, the new, fully operational ozone system will prevent future algae bloom concerns.
24-Inch Water Main Leak
A leak in one of the City’s 24-hour water mains contributed to loss points. The 2024 Bond Project’s newly approved funding will repair this leak.
McKellar stressed that the Department of Water and Sewerage dedicates itself to the safety and dependability of Shreveport’s water supply. Though the Louisiana Department of Health’s grade places a spotlight on areas requiring improvement, significant strides have already been made towards enhancing the City’s infrastructure.