Second water main break on Tompkins St. in Waterbury
Crews in Waterbury are working to repair a second water main break on Tompkins St. after a break on the same street earlier this week left thousands without water for days.
According to Waterbury Mayor Paul Pernerewski, a leak close to where the initial break was reported on Tuesday occurred early Friday morning, just after crews had repaired the first one .
“We were in the process of repressurizing the line, trying to bring the water back into the system and fill the tanks, “ said Pernerewski. “About 3:15 this morning, 14 to 16 feet down from the break that happened a couple of days ago, there was another break. So, at this point we have once again shut down the water to this part of the line.”
Pernerewski said that while the cause of the break is unknown at this time, crews are working quickly to determine how to make the necessary repairs.
He said crews on the scene are assessing the break and they should have more information about the repair and restoration later today.
The city has scheduled another water distribution at Municipal Stadium Friday afternoon.
Pernerewski said he understands resident’s frustrations with the recent shortcomings with the city’s infrastructure.
In December 2025, the city experienced the worst water main break in their history when a 120-year-old pipe failed, creating a massive water main break. Nearly 100,000 residents were without water for days. National Guard tankers had to be deployed.
“I’m going to ask that people be patient, said Pernerewski. “I know it’s very, very frustrating to wake up this morning expecting that the water was going to be back on. I’m in the same position.”
From breaking news and local politics to art exhibitions, live music, high school sports, small businesses, and cultural events, we celebrate the people and places that make Connecticut unique.