As a result of soaring consumer water consumption, unprecedented high temperatures, and multiple water main breaks exacerbated by dry soil conditions, the City of Grand Prairie has taken a proactive step to prevent a potential water crisis. Effective today, the city has implemented mandatory Stage 2 water restrictions to mitigate the strain on the water supply and avert the possibility of a boil water notice.
The water restrictions, which are slated to remain in place until the water system can fully recuperate from the ongoing drought conditions, come in response to a convergence of factors that have put significant pressure on the city's water infrastructure.
Officials warn that continued excessive water use in conjunction with these challenges could lead to a depletion in water pressure, potentially necessitating even more stringent measures, fines for non-compliance, or the issuance of a city-wide boil water notice. Such an outcome could also force the city to incur additional expenses by purchasing water at premium rates, consequently driving up water costs for residents and businesses across Grand Prairie.
To address the situation, the city has rolled out a comprehensive set of water usage restrictions and guidelines designed to help alleviate the strain on the water supply and minimize further damage to the water infrastructure. Among the key measures are:
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Watering Schedule: Residents are required to adhere to a strict watering schedule. No outdoor watering is allowed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. This interval in watering helps the city's water storage tanks recover.
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Odd-Even Address System: On designated watering days, residents must follow an odd-even address system. Those with odd-numbered addresses are allowed to water on Fridays, while those with even-numbered addresses can water on Mondays.
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Time Window for Watering: Residents are urged to avoid outdoor watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to reduce water evaporation during peak daytime temperatures.
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Limited Use for Specific Activities: Water usage for certain activities is restricted. For instance, the use of water to wash vehicles is limited to designated landscape watering days, and even then, it must be done with a hand-held bucket or a hose with a shutoff nozzle.
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Swimming Pools and Fountains: Refilling of indoor and outdoor swimming pools and ornamental fountains is prohibited, with some exceptions for necessary scenarios like pool repairs or new constructions.
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Public Spaces and Golf Courses: Large public spaces and golf courses will follow water usage schedules set by the city. Golf courses may water specific areas by special permit, but fairways and other sections must adhere to the prescribed weekly rotation schedule.
Residents are encouraged to report water usage violations through various channels, including text, online forms, and phone calls. By collectively complying with these measures, residents can play a vital role in safeguarding the city's water supply and infrastructure.
Water violations may be reported in one of the following ways:
- Text Water Violation to 972-640-4789
- Online at gptx.org/waterrestrictions
- Call 972-237-8296
