(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.) — The City of Manitou Springs is urging neighbors in the community to conserve as much water as possible after a system failed during maintenance work and forced the emergency shut-off of the City’s main water tank.

According to the City, emergency repair work is underway on a water main on Puma Path, south of Manitou Avenue near Memorial Park. The City said crews were replacing the aging infrastructure around a fire hydrant when the system failed, causing flooding into the stormwater drainage system.

As a result of the failure, the City said Public Works crews shut off water valves from the main water tank to gain access to the origin of the leak. 

This has caused disruptions for all Manitou Springs water users, and for this reason, the City is urging residential neighbors and businesses to conserve as much water as possible:

Turn off sprinklers.

Do not wash sidewalks, cars, etc. with water.

Avoid laundry, dishwashing, showers, etc.

Do not use water for anything but necessary activities.

The City said there is currently no estimated time of restoration. The Pool and Fitness Center at 202 Manitou Avenue, has been closed to the public for the rest of the day. The public is asked to avoid the area where work is being performed.