Repairs to a major water main break on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood entered their fourth day on Sunday, while city crews also addressed two separate pipe ruptures in Venice and Hollywood. The original break on Thursday unleashed an estimated 17 million gallons of water, flooding streets and displacing residents.
Officials have not provided a definitive timeline for the completion of repairs on the 110-year-old pipe beneath Sunset Boulevard, which remains closed between Sherbourne Drive and San Vicente Boulevard. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) stated that crews are working diligently to finish the work as quickly and safely as possible. The LADWP has confirmed that tap water remains safe to drink, though residents are advised to conserve water as the area is temporarily relying on a smaller distribution pipe, potentially leading to reduced water pressure.
The extensive flooding from Thursday's rupture inundated underground parking garages, damaging an estimated 150 to 200 vehicles, according to West Hollywood Mayor John Heilman. Several businesses, including the well-known bookstore Book Soup, were forced to close indefinitely due to safety concerns and the ongoing cleanup efforts. A 25-foot section of the damaged 36-inch steel transmission line, part of the Sunset Trunk Line, has been replaced. Crews are currently in the process of refilling and repressurizing the pipe, followed by disinfection and water quality testing before the roadway can be repaired.
In addition to the significant disruption on Sunset Boulevard, two other water pipe ruptures occurred on Saturday, one in Venice and another in Hollywood. These incidents were reportedly repaired quickly and are not believed to be related to the larger break in West Hollywood. A further break on a smaller 8-inch water main in Venice was reported Sunday morning and was still being addressed by repair crews.
The incidents highlight ongoing infrastructure challenges, with the LADWP noting in 2019 that approximately 29% of the city's water pipes were nearing or exceeding their typical 100-year lifespan. The section of the Sunset Trunk Line that ruptured was originally scheduled for replacement in 2031. Residents and businesses affected by property damage can find information on filing claims at www.LADWP.com/Claims.
