Kalamazoo water main breaks highlight aging infrastructure, winter strain on system

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Crews worked through frozen ground and rushing water this week after a water main break prompted repairs in a Kalamazoo neighborhood, underscoring ongoing challenges tied to aging infrastructure and harsh winter conditions.

City officials say many of Kalamazoo’s underground pipes are decades old, making them more vulnerable when soil shifts during periods of deep frost.

So far in 2026, the city has experienced 25 water main breaks, according to the Department of Public Services.

Around this time last year, there were approximately 50 breaks, a decline officials attribute in part to proactive pipe replacement and lining projects.

Still, winter remains a critical stress test for municipal water systems.

“Aging infrastructure and shifting soil are primary causes of water main breaks, and current frost depths of three feet or more can further contribute to those conditions,” the department said in a statement sent to News Channel 3.

Some cast iron pipes beneath the city are estimated to be between 62 and 85 years old, increasing the likelihood of failures as temperatures fluctuate.

Although the recent break did not result in a boil water advisory, officials say those notices are commonly issued when water pressure must be temporarily reduced to complete repairs or connect new pipes.

Public water systems are typically kept under constant pressure to prevent outside contaminants from entering. When pressure drops, the system becomes less protected — prompting precautionary advisories while testing is completed.

City crews perform two separate rounds of water quality testing before lifting an advisory.

During that time, affected residents are advised to boil tap water for at least two minutes before consuming it or use bottled water. Officials note that water used for hygiene does not require special treatment.

Boil water advisories are considered precautionary and are often lifted within a few days once testing confirms the water has not been affected.

In the rare event contamination is detected, a stronger notice, such as a “Do Not Drink” or “Do Not Use” order, would be issued. Officials say those situations are exceedingly uncommon.

Before reducing pressure, crews isolate sections of the water system to ensure the smallest possible service area is affected.

Advisory notices are typically hand-delivered to impacted homes and businesses when feasible, though larger incidents may be communicated through media releases and public alerts.

All current and recently lifted advisories are also listed on the city’s website, where residents can subscribe for updates.

While infrastructure upgrades appear to be reducing the number of annual breaks, officials caution that freezing temperatures continue to put strain on pipes buried deep beneath city streets.

For residents, most of that work happens out of sight, until a break disrupts service.

City leaders say continued investment in water main replacement will be key to improving reliability and preventing future failures.