CSU’s ‘hoseover’ operation brings water to businesses amid valve repair

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The ongoing improvements project on the north end of 8th Street has presented its share of challenges for drivers, pedestrians, business owners, and city officials.

But the latest challenge is an issue separate from that project.

Because of repair work next week by Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) to fix a broken water valve, water service to 26 businesses must be shut off for three days.

Therefore, CSU has started a "hoseover" operation that will provide water to affected businesses from individual hoses to fire hydrants.

"We don't really love running unknown water into the machines, because the sediment really messes up the espresso machine," said Liana Horrace, a manager at Corto Coffee Roasters. "But having some water is better than nothing at all. I don't think we'll be affected because we use a different water line -- at least I hope that's the case."

The operation started on Wednesday and continues on Thursday, with a crew of 14 connecting hoses and, in some cases, carrying them over hills and across fence lines.

Water from the hydrants will connect to CSU service lines that provide water to the affected businesses.

"We'll be using 6.5 miles of hose in this operation," said Michael Myers, CSU's manager for water and wastewater. "And while we're underground, we'll also take the opportunity to repair a cross junction, where four pipes meet."

Water leaking from the valve flows onto 8th Street.

CSU said that the businesses are between Fountain Creek and Motor City Drive, and include a car wash and several restaurants.

The water valve repair will occur Monday through Wednesday, and CSU expects to return to normal water service by the end of next week.

Construction in that area has had significant traffic impacts; both southbound lanes of 8th Street between Costilla Street and Moreno Avenue will be closed for two weeks, and westbound Moreno traffic also will be closed at the intersection

The water valve requiring repair is connected to a smaller distribution line, and not to the water main that is currently being replaced under 8th Street.

Most passers-by likely won't notice the temporary lines because most will be attached to hydrants that are behind the affected businesses.

KRDO 13 is one of the affected businesses.