Lewisville city officials are urging residents in the vicinity of a recent wastewater spill to take recommended safety steps. The incident occurred Thursday around 11:30 a.m. when a contractor working on a municipal project struck a pressurized wastewater pipe in the 700 block of E. Valley Ridge Boulevard.
Spill details and immediate response
According to the city’s press release, the pipe breach initially confined the discharge to the excavation site while crews worked to contain it. At approximately 4:30 p.m., the containment failed and at least 100,000 gallons of wastewater entered Prairie Creek. The flow continued for about five minutes before the contractor built an improvised berm within the creek, halting further movement toward the Elm Fork of the Trinity River.
The city confirmed that the affected pipe is part of the municipal wastewater collection system and carries domestic wastewater. While the exact volume that reached Prairie Creek is still being calculated, officials stress that the city’s drinking water supply has not been compromised.
Precautions recommended by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
In line with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements, Lewisville recommends the following precautions for residents who may be in the affected area:
- Avoid direct contact with water in the bermed section of Prairie Creek.
- Do not allow pets or livestock to drink or swim in the creek until further notice.
- Refrain from fishing, wading, or any recreational activities in the waterway.
- Follow any additional guidance issued by city or state officials.
The city is actively pumping the wastewater contained within the bermed section of Prairie Creek and routing it to the municipal wastewater treatment plant for proper treatment.
Ongoing monitoring and next steps
City crews continue repairs at the breach site and are monitoring water quality in Prairie Creek and downstream areas. Officials will assess whether additional cleanup measures are needed after the initial response is completed.
Lewisville has notified TCEQ of the incident and will submit any required follow‑up information, including the final estimated spill volume and corrective actions taken.
Community impact
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the city’s official channels and to report any concerns about water quality. The city’s public works department will provide updates as the situation evolves.
While the spill represents an unfortunate disruption, the swift response by the contractor, city crews, and state regulators demonstrates Lewisville’s commitment to protecting public health and the environment.
Original reporting: Cross Timbers Gazette — read the source article.
