Mountain View Neighborhood Left Without Potable Water After Construction Error

Neighbors in a Mountain View neighborhood spent the weekend without potable water after a construction site mistake on Friday led to a potential contamination breach. The incident occurred just off Cuesta Avenue as a private contractor was replacing underground water lines at the intersection of Cuesta Drive and Bonita Avenue.

City spokesperson Lenka Wright confirmed that a "cement slurry mix" entered the water main, requiring an immediate supply shutoff for 67 homes. According to residents, the error stemmed from a failure to properly cap a pipe, with the contractor reportedly relying on a leaky valve instead of following standard safety protocols.

By late Sunday morning, water service was restored to most affected homes, but strict state regulations currently prohibit its use for anything other than flushing toilets. Residents have been instructed not to use tap water for drinking, cooking, washing, or any bodily contact until comprehensive testing confirms it is safe.

To mitigate the impact, the city distributed two cases of bottled water and hand sanitizer to each household and offered to reimburse residents for hotel stays. Local swim clubs and a nearby park have also opened their facilities to provide showers and restrooms for those displaced by the utility failure.

The city is currently coordinating with the State Water Resources Control Board to conduct the necessary safety tests. Because these tests require a 30-hour incubation period, final results are not expected until Monday afternoon at the earliest, and officials warn the "do not drink" order could persist into the middle of the week.

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