Water issues near Bradenton still possible as repairs will take longer, county says

Repairs under way on a major pipe that sprung a leak in Manatee County’s water system may continue to cause discolored water and low water pressure for some residents this week, the county said in a news release Tuesday.

The discolored water is safe to drink, the county noted.

Manatee County officials announced Saturday that a leak was discovered in a section of the water line installed in the 1970s, and a contractor was called in to aid county utility crews in isolating and fixing it.

Homes north of the Manatee River are more likely to be impacted, the county previously said. That service area includes Palmetto, Parrish and Ellenton.

The repairs were originally estimated to be complete by the end of New Year’s Day. But county officials now say they could continue throughout this week.

County staff will notify residents if a temporary water shut off at their home is necessary, the release said.

Residents who experience water service interruptions without warning are asked to report them immediately to the county government at 3-1-1.