Oklahoma City residents may have heard the rumbles this week, as the City Utilities Department began the teardown of a hulking water storage tank. As part of a larger infrastructure upgrade, the department has targeted the south water tank at NW 52nd Street and Colfax Place for demolition—a structure that, having outlived its utility, now steps aside for the new. The details of this city-led venture were shared in a recent social media post by the City of Oklahoma City - Government.
The initiative, it seems, will stretch into the new year with a promise of minimal interruption to the neighborhood's daily pulse. Demolition, confined to the realms of Utilities property, is expected to last three weeks. In the wake of this necessary destruction, locals can anticipate "Neighbors who live in the area surrounding the booster station may experience an increase in noise, dirt and vibrations as demolition work is taking place," along with the procession of heavy machinery near their homes. Yet the city reassures minimal impact to streets or traffic flow, offering a semblance of peace in a time of upheaval, as stated in the City of Oklahoma City - Government's post.
The booster station, which receives water from the Hefner Water Treatment Plant, supplies customers along the Northwest Expressway corridor. The city assures residents that water quality and pressure will be maintained throughout these operations. Customers experiencing any issues are encouraged to contact Oklahoma City Utilities Customer Service at (405) 297-2833.
The City of Oklahoma City has outlined a two-year timeline for its water infrastructure upgrades. After the current demolition, the second phase is scheduled for 2026, when a new water tank will be constructed to replace the old one. The final phase in 2027 will involve the removal of the second tank. Serving approximately 1.5 million residents, as well as surrounding communities, the project underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining and improving its essential water services.
