Mercer Island says water conservation likely needed after main leak

Mercer Island residents might need to conserve water this summer after a water-main leak earlier this month triggered a brief evacuation of about 20 homes due to landslide risk, the city said in a statement Wednesday night.

The city’s main water-supply line owned and maintained by Seattle Public Utilities remains out of service. A smaller backup line has provided water to 25,000 residents on Mercer Island, the city said.

In a Facebook post, Mercer Island Councilmember Craig Reynolds said repairing the main supply line “will take many months” into the summer.

“The backup line is unlikely to supply enough water to meet our typical needs” in the summer, Reynolds said. “This would not be a good year to fill a new swimming pool or put in a new lawn.”

The city Monday said it is working to “abandon a larger portion” of its main line and relocate water service right around Mercerwood Drive and Greenbrier Lane. Last week, the city also said the main line had a leak in the nearby 95th Court Southeast area.

The city said water-conservation efforts such as reducing garden and lawn irrigation, running the dishwasher and washing machine only with full loads, and reducing personal water use are likely needed.

“This backup line will not keep up with summer water demand,” the city said. “Although no conservation measures are currently in place, we are providing early notice that these actions are likely to be implemented soon.”

The city said it’s evaluating what types of restrictions may be needed. Residents can monitor the city’s Let’s Talk webpage, and those with questions or concerns can call 206-275-7600 during operating hours, the city said.