CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In an abundance of caution, Charlotte Water is asking all customers to further conserve water including refraining from outdoor irrigation following a water main break in the 1000 block of Queens Road.
Crews are actively responding to the break and working to isolate the damaged section of pipe and begin repairs. As a precaution, Charlotte Water is asking customers across the service area to reduce their water use while repairs are underway. These conservation efforts will help maintain adequate water pressure throughout the system and ensure reliable service for all customers.
Customers in the south Charlotte area may notice lower-than-normal water pressure while repairs are underway. Charlotte Water will provide updates as more information becomes available and will notify customers when normal water use restrictions, including irrigation, can resume.
Drinking water remains safe to use and is not impacted by the water main break.
This blog provides general information about what to expect during construction. This is not comprehensive and may not include all equipment or construction situations.
Water and Wastewater Terms
WATER
Service Lines are the pipes between the water main under the street and the water meter. Sizes are ¾-inch or 1-inch in diameter at the meter box.
Water Mains (also distribution mains) are the pipes under the street that serve immediate customers and neighborhoods. Sizes range 4 to 12-inch diameter pipe along public streets or appropriate rights-of-way used for distributing water to individual customers.
Transmission Mains are the pipes under the street that serve several neighborhoods and zip codes. Sizes range from 16-inches in diameter to 72-inches.
WASTEWATER
Laterals convey wastewater (sewage) from an individual building to a gravity sewer pipe in the road right of way or a Charlotte Water easement.
Manholes are the access points for inspecting and maintaining wastewater pipes.
Low-Pressure Sanitary Sewer (LPSS) helps push wastewater away from properties near steep and uneven topography (usually near lakes and creeks). Properties with this special need also have specialized maintenance needs.
Trunk receives waste from laterals and conveys wastewater under the street or behind buildings along easements.
Interceptor is a large pipe that gathers wastewater from other trunks or collector pipes to convey to a wastewater treatment plant. Sizes range from 8-inches in diameter to 30-inches.
Relief Sewer is a large pipe to assist the existing interceptor when flows are reaching capacity. These pipes help prevent sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) especially during heavy rain events. Sizes range from 12-inches in diameter to 78-inches.
Force Main & Pump Stations (also known as lift stations) pump neighborhood(s) wastewater from one creek/drainage basin to another through force mains to gravity flow sewer lines so that it can be conveyed to a wastewater treatment plant.
Project Types
Capital Investment Project – 96-inch transmission water main valve
Water Main Replacement – Crews installing new pipe to replace older pipe.
Water rehabilitation – Crew cleaning underground pipe while customers are served with an above ground pipe.
Crews will be on scaffolding installing a sock-like lining inside an existing pipe through manholes. The sock-like liner will extend the wastewater pipe’s service life minimizing construction in the area.
New Service – Meter and meter box installed for a new customer.
Capital Investment Plan (CIP)
Projects identified and budgeted through the Capital Investment Plan. These include projects to serve growing service areas, enhancements at water and wastewater treatment plants and other facilities, and to reline/replace old pipes. Size of equipment and construction zones will vary.
Pipe Replacement
Replacing the water main and/or service pipes (between the water main under the street to the water meter) to reduce future leaks/repairs due to age. Typical construction zone is a few street blocks.
Water Rehabilitation
Crews clean inside of 50+ year old pipes in the oldest neighborhoods. A temporary above-ground drinking water pipe may be installed. Above-ground water pipes serve customers while the water pipe under the street is cleaned and relined with an epoxy solution. All pipes are tested for water quality. A typical construction area is several street blocks.
Wastewater Rehabilitation
Crews clean inside the pipe and install a
sock-like lining inside an existing pipe through manholes. Think of it as a new pipe inside the old pipe. The construction area may be in the street or the backyards.
Developer ‘Donated’ Projects (Installation Development Services, IDS)
Developers install new water and wastewater pipes and then donate to CLTWater. CLTWater inspects pipe installation and tests pipes.
New Service Tap, Street Main Extension
Customers currently on well, septic, or developing a vacant lot can apply for water or wastewater service if it is within 1,000 feet of their property. Extending the pipe to serve a new customer may take months, depending on the location of the existing infrastructure and required permits.
What To Expect Before Construction
Surveying
Survey crews determine the required depth for pipes by calculating the elevations in the area. Stakes, brightly colored flagging, and paint marks may appear in your yard or on the street after a survey crew has worked.
Smoke Testing
Crews may blow smoke into wastewater pipes to identify potential pipe cracks (where smoke escapes). Customers will be notified in advance.
Soil Boring
Subcontractors may conduct subsurface investigations (also known as test pit or soft dig) to assess existing utilities as well as soil and rock conditions along the pipe alignment.
Locates (Spray Painting)
Utilities spray paint where fiber optic, gas, and water pipes to inform contractors before they dig.
Silt Fence
Silt fencing prevents soil /sediment from washing away.
Fencing
Security and privacy fencing may be installed.
Ribbons, Stakes, & Spray Paint
The project area will have various markings along the pipe alignment. Trees may be labeled differently. Please talk to the project manager or inspector to confirm what markings may mean for the project.
Clearing
The easement and temporary construction easement will be cleared of trees (with some exceptions) and restored to grass after pipe installation. CLTWater will preserve trees if possible.
Easement
The easement for a project will vary based on size of pipe, required depth, and other factors.
Pipe Delivery and Storage
Pipe, equipment, soil and other materials are stored in the construction easement or road right-of-way.
48-inch drinking water pipe delivered to a construction area.
6-inch drinking water pipe along the side of the road during a water pipe replacement project.
What To Expect During Construction
Construction Zone
Construction zones will be large enough for excavators and dump trucks to move.
Trackhoe & Backhoe Excavators use a bucket on a hinged boom to remove dirt in the middle of the road for a new 36-inch pipe.
Crews using a backhoe at a water pipe rehabilitation project
Asphalt Cutter & Impact Hammer
Equipment used to break or cut asphalt to expose the pipe.
Inspectors
CLTWater inspectors will verify that pipes are installed in accordance with the design and assist customers.
Dump Trucks
Several dump trucks may assist with construction to remove and add soil, gravel, etc.
Trench Box
Trench boxes protect workers from cave-ins while installing, inspecting, or replacing pipes in the trench.
Wastewater Pipe Construction
Large Equipment
24-inch wastewater pipe project under a street.
Creek Crossing
Contractors may create a safe creek crossing for equipment. Large pipes keep the creek flowing underneath.
Manholes
Manholes vary in size depending on the amount of wastewater generated by a community.
Drinking Water Pipe Construction
Valves
Crews may use drinking water valves to temporarily turn off water to a pipe.
Fire Hydrant Flushing
Crews may flow hydrants to test or maintain water quality.
Meter Box Installation
A new water service installation includes: pipe near the property line, meter, and meter box. The property owner is responsible for connecting plumbing to tailpiece leaving the meter box.
Fire Hydrant Installation or Replacement
Fire hydrants are installed to provide emergency water service.
A 72-inch water transmission pipe to serve several neighborhoods.
24-inch drinking water pipe installation.
6-inch drinking water pipe replacement project, including new service pipes to each water meter.
What Does Tunneling (Boring) Look Like
CLTWater may tunnel under major roads to reduce lane closures. Tunneling requires entry and exit pits. Tunneling takes several months to complete. Some boring operations may be smaller to go under a large tree or driveway.
Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM)
Some tunnel boring machines uses disc cutters to fracture rock.
Tunnel boring machine at the bottom of the photo.
The pipe is installed inside a metal casing to protect the pipe, the street, and other infrastructure above the tunnel.
View from inside the tunnel looking at the entry pit.
Cranes may be required to move equipment and dirt.
What Does Rock Blasting Look Like?
CLTWater may contact customers to conduct a pre-blast survey to record building details.
A seismograph monitor records blast vibrations to verify they are within safe specifications.
Blasting is a standard construction procedure for removing rock when other methods are not effective.
Holes are drilled to insert the dynamite charges into the rock.
Residents may hear a warning horn, a muffled noise, and slight vibration or rumble similar to a slammed door or thunder.
What Does Water Rehabilitation Look Like?
When pipes exceed 50 years of service, CLTWater can extend their service life through rehabilitation. Crews will clean and add a new interior lining. First, the contractor will install a temporary above-ground drinking water pipe and test it for quality. Once the above-ground pipe is approved, customers are connected.
Crews dig at strategic locations reducing the inconvenience to customers.The above-ground pipe will have small ramps.Crews clean the inside of the water pipe before adding a new lining.Crews will inspect the inside of the pipe using a small camera on wheels.
What Does Wastewater Rehabilitation Look Like?
Crews will be on scaffolding, installing a sock-like lining inside an existing pipe through manholes. The sock-like liner will extend the wastewater pipe’s service life, minimizing construction in the area.
Crews will be on scaffolding installing a sock-like lining inside an existing pipe through manholes. The sock-like liner will extend the wastewater pipe’s service life minimizing construction in the area.Large diameter pipe rehabilitation project.
What Does Restoration Look Like?
wastewater pipe construction inthe street with two excavators with a ternch.
restored area showing repaved road and new grass
All construction and restoration by CLTWater contractors includes a one year warranty.
Subcontractors or Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) Street Maintenance may repave a larger area than the trench after the project is complete.
What Do Charlotte Water’s Visible Utility Structures On Private Property Look Like?
Fire hydrants are installed within 1,000 feet of every existing property served by Charlotte Water.
photo of a water sampling station (green) The purpose is to monitor quality of water within the system.
photo of grass and two circles in the lawn that are the meter lids so that crews can turn water off to a water pipe to replace or repair a pipe.
Auto-flushers are used on dead ends or locations to flow water where water flow isn’t optimal to maintain excellent water quality.
Manholes are installed flush with grass if in a maintained yard. If the manhole is installed in a floodplain, it may have a vent coming out of it or may be raised.
Every career begins with a first step, but what comes next is just as important.
Charlotte Water’s Utility Tech I Apprenticeship is designed not only to train employees for today’s work, but to help them build long-term careers. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional development, apprentices gain the skills and confidence needed to grow within the organization.
In the final installment of our three-part series, we hear from several apprentices about their future goals and what they hope to achieve through the program.
Tyis Cunningham
Before becoming an apprentice, Tyis built a career in construction and heavy equipment operation, working on projects ranging from commercial development to infrastructure work.
His experience operating machinery and working in the field provided him with a strong foundation for the hands-on work in water utilities. Tyis said the apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity to expand his skills in a new industry.
“I’m excited to learn something different and earn new certifications,” he said.
He is particularly interested in continuing his education while building his career. In addition to pursuing industry certifications, he hopes to take business and accounting classes to help him grow professionally and personally.
“I want to leave a legacy,” he said. “I want to make sure I’m building something that lasts.”
Outside of work, Tyis enjoys spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding ATVs.
Keijuan “KayJay” Green
Before joining Charlotte Water, Keijuan Green, who goes by KayJay, gained experience across a wide range of industries, including construction, landscaping, railroad operations, and restaurant management. Throughout those roles, he developed strong leadership and communication skills that continue to shape his approach to his work today.
“I’ve always been someone who can work with anybody,” he said. “No matter someone’s background, I can find a way to connect and work together.”
KayJay had also pursued coursework in construction and plumbing at Central Piedmont Community College, making the apprenticeship a natural next step toward the hands-on trade career he had been pursuing. He hopes to continue developing his leadership abilities and eventually move into an operator role.
“I finally feel like I’ve found a career,” he said. “I want to grow here and build something long-term.”
Outside of work, KayJay is a former two-time state champion wrestler who spent much of his youth competing in athletics.
Allen Blackmann
Allen entered the apprenticeship with a background in aviation work at the airport and technical training through Goodwill’s training program. While the water and wastewater field was new to him, the opportunity to build a long-term career quickly stood out.
“Charlotte Water has a lot to offer,” he said. “It’s not just short-term. If you put in the time and learn, it benefits you in the future.”
As an apprentice, Allen focuses on learning from experienced crew members and building the skills needed to succeed in the field. Much of the training so far has emphasized communication, teamwork, and professionalism.
“It’s not just about the labor,” he explained. “They’re really building your character and teaching you how to communicate and work with people.”
Looking ahead, Allen hopes to grow within the organization and eventually step into leadership opportunities once he gains more experience in the field.
A group photo taken at the apprenticeship signing
Building the Future of Charlotte Water
The Utility Tech I Apprenticeship program reflects Charlotte Water’s investment in developing skilled employees and creating long-term career pathways. Each apprentice brings unique experiences, goals, and perspectives, but they share a common commitment to learning, teamwork, and serving the community.
As this year’s cohort continues their training, they are not only developing technical skills but also laying the foundation for the next generation of water utility professionals.
Getting to learn about each apprentice’s story has been a privilege, and their passion and commitment make it clear that the future of our community is in good hands!
What happens after you’re accepted into the program?
While each apprentice arrived at Charlotte Water from a different path, they now share a common experience: structured training, hands-on preparation, and a culture built on accountability and teamwork. The Utility Tech I Apprenticeship blends technical instruction with personal development, ensuring participants are prepared not only for the work itself but also for long-term growth within the organization.
In this second installment of our three-part series, we take a closer look at what the apprenticeship experience feels like from the inside.
DJ Hobbs
For DJ, the apprenticeship represents more than a career transition. Coming from a background in armed security and customer service, he was ready to move from contract work into something more stable and long-term. While new to water and wastewater, he quickly found that the program offered something he had not experienced before.
Each day begins at 7:30 a.m., often with a team-building activity that helps the group connect before diving into lessons. From emotional awareness and conflict resolution to preparing for life as a full-time employee, the training focuses on more than technical skills.
“They really care about your mental well-being,” DJ said. “They’re preparing you for real life.”
What surprised him most was the culture. After his son’s birth, his cohort signed a card and celebrated with him. “It feels like I have another family,” he shared.
J’Mani Moore
J’Mani entered the apprenticeship with prior experience in water and wastewater operations, having worked in facility maintenance for lift stations and treatment plants in Gaston County. For him, joining Charlotte Water was a step deeper into a field he already enjoyed.
While the technical training is valuable, J’Mani said the emphasis on interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence has stood out the most.
“I’m kind of in a rebranding phase of my life,” he shared. “Refining my attitude and emotional intelligence is something I can use every day.”
Even with a 50-minute commute and balancing family responsibilities, he views the structured training as an investment in both his career and personal growth.
Akeem Flowers
Akeem joined the program with experience in warehouse management, carpentry, and appliance installation. While new to water and wastewater, he quickly recognized that the apprenticeship offers more than technical instruction.
For Akeem, learning professionalism and workplace communication has been especially impactful. “Now coming in here and learning how I should be able to talk to coworkers, bosses, managers… it makes me feel more prepared,” he said.
He was also surprised by the level of organizational support. From great benefits to leadership that encourages internal mobility and career pathways, Akeem said the program feels like an opportunity to grow within a company that invests in its people.
Darrell Akrie
Darrell entered the apprenticeship with prior experience in sewer and water operations, having worked in both York County and with Charlotte Water. For him, the program represents continued growth within a field he already knows well.
He describes each day as an opportunity to remain open-minded and learn new systems as operations evolve. Operator training has been especially meaningful, including hands-on exposure to equipment such as front loaders and excavators.
Darrell has been impressed by the consistency of communication and teamwork throughout the program. Even as they adapt to new digital tools and technologies, he and his cohort rely on one another through collaboration and shared support.
For Darrell, completing the apprenticeship means unlocking new possibilities and continuing to build a career rooted in service and growth.
Apprentices inside a Water Treatment Plant
While each apprentice’s experience is unique, a common theme continues to emerge: the Utility Tech I Apprenticeship is not simply job training. It is preparation for a sustainable career, built on technical skills, personal development, and a strong team foundation.
In our final installment, we will explore what comes next for these apprentices. From long-term goals to the future, they hope to build within Charlotte Water.
A conversation with Charlotte Water
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