JEFFERSON PARISH, La. — A new temporary waterline system was installed in Jefferson Parish. Officials announced on Thursday afternoon that the West Bank flexible waterline system was completed, tested, and ready to supply fresh drinking water for residents.
Although the Army Corps of Engineers' latest forecast said the saltwater is not likely to impact the area, officials continued to build the system as a precautionary measure.
"While the latest forecast from the Corps is favorable for our parish, we want to always be prepared to provide fresh water to Jefferson Parish residents in worst-case scenarios," said Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng.
Construction of the flexible waterline system began on Wednesday, Oct. 4.
A scaled-back version of the system is 15 miles on the West Bank, which will pump fresh water from a location upriver of Kenner.
If the situation changes construction of the completed system will begin. Officials said they are prepared to install the remaining eight miles of the West Bank system and will begin construction on a 10-mile system on the East Bank Water Treatment Plant intake.
They said they are still working on securing permits and permissions to build a similar waterline system on the East Bank.
Officials encourage residents to stay informed and visit Jefferson Parish's website for updates.
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