LEANDER, Texas — The City of Leander is moving up to Stage 4 water conservation next Monday as crews prepare to replace the Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority (BCRUA) pipeline.
Previously, Leander was under Phase 2 water conservation, which limited watering to once a week. During Phase 4, water customers are asked to turn off their irrigation systems and limit all nonessential water use.
On Feb. 28, the City said BCRUA contractors will begin replacing about 1,400 feet of 36-inch underwater pipeline that is used to transport raw water from Lake Travis to the BCRUA water treatment plant, which serves as Leander's primary source for potable water. The project is expected to be complete by the first week of April.
The City said the planned construction will require shutting down the BCRUA water treatment plant, which will reduce Leander's overall capacity of potable water. While the BCRUA plant is shut down, Leander will rely solely on its Sandy Creek water treatment plant.
Leander will start Phase 4 water conservation on Monday, Feb. 12, in an effort to reduce water demand before the pipeline replacement project begins. The city will remain in Phase 4 until the project is completed.
Residents who violate Phase 4 will receive a courtesy warning for their first offense. Second and subsequent offenses will result in a $1,000 fine and potential disconnection of water.
The City said it has been notifying residents of the Phase 4 water conservation measures. On Feb. 1, the Leander City Council approved a resolution supporting the temporary emergency water conservation.