Around-the-Clock Response: GWSSA Crews Tackle Major Water Main Break
A major water main break, a second leak, and an overnight search for specialized parts put GWSSA crews to the test as they worked to maintain water service across the valley.
When a major water main breaks, the work involved goes far beyond repairing a pipe. It takes coordination, quick decisions, specialized parts, and a dedicated crew willing to work through the stormy night to keep water flowing to the community.
On Sunday, October 11th, 2026, the Grand Water & Sewer Service Agency (GWSSA) responded to a major break in a 14-inch water main on East Bench Road near Coyote Run. The emergency began at 5:25 p.m., when a local citizen reported the leak. After assessing the situation, GWSSA called in additional crew members to address the extensive damage.
At 7:20 p.m., GWSSA notified residents in the affected area while crews worked with Emery Telcom, Dominion Energy, and Rocky Mountain Power to identify and secure nearby utilities. A power pole was at risk of tipping over, but Rocky Mountain Power secured it, helping maintain electrical service to surrounding neighborhoods. Fiber internet service also remained uninterrupted.
At approximately 8:00 p.m., a second water main leak was reported farther up the valley. GWSSA's Operations Supervisor began strategically operating valves to isolate the leak while maintaining water service to other customers wherever possible. Some residents experienced reduced water pressure, but water remained deliverable in affected areas.
By 10:00 p.m., crews discovered they could not locate the specialized fittings needed to repair the original 14-inch mainline. After numerous calls to surrounding municipalities and private suppliers, two GWSSA employees headed north to find the parts. When the fittings could not be located in Richfield, they continued to Salt Lake City. Meanwhile, other operators redirected their efforts to the second leak.
By 4:00 a.m., crews had installed new parts at the second leak, and water service was restored to that area. The employees searching for the original repair fittings waited for a Salt Lake City warehouse to open at 6:00 a.m. before securing the parts and bringing them back to Moab.
Despite the overnight emergency, GWSSA crew members arrived for their normal workday at 6:30 a.m. after a brief rest. When the repair fittings arrived at 11:00 a.m., crews outfitted the damaged mainline with the necessary parts and began the process of backfilling and covering the excavation. At 5:30 p.m., the entire crew completed the emergency project—essentially 24 hours after the leak was first reported.
GWSSA thanks the citizen who reported the leak, the residents who remained patient during the disruption, and Emery Telcom, Dominion Energy, and Rocky Mountain Power for their cooperation in protecting nearby infrastructure and essential services.
We especially recognize the hardworking GWSSA employees who worked through the rainy night, addressed two separate leaks, and continued until the job was complete.
Finally, we extend our sincere appreciation to the employees' families. Emergency calls can mean long hours away from home, disrupted plans, and loved ones working through the night. Their families' patience, support, and understanding make this dedication possible.
GWSSA is grateful to our employees, their families, and our community for helping keep essential water services reliable.
Photos from the Coyote Run Leak
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