Authorizing the Committee on Streets and Services and the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities to hold joint hearings examining water main breaks and sinkholes occurring in District 7, evaluating the underlying causes of these issues, and identifying solutions to prevent and mitigate their frequency.

WHEREAS, Since 2024, District 7 has experienced approximately 35 water main breaks, disrupting residents, businesses, and public safety; and

WHEREAS, From 2022 to 2024, District 7 received approximately 145 reports from constituents regarding sinkholes, potholes, plumber’s ditches, and water main breaks, highlighting a pattern of recurring infrastructure failures; and

WHEREAS, These ongoing issues present serious public safety risks, including road collapses, flooding, and damage to private and public property, while also diminishing residents' quality of life; and

WHEREAS, Addressing these persistent issues proactively would lead to more effective use of City resources, reducing long-term costs associated with emergency repairs, property damage claims, and repeated roadwork disruptions; and

WHEREAS, Prioritizing prevention and mitigation efforts through proactive water management, proper construction practices, and long-term infrastructure planning would reduce the risk of future failures, decrease emergency repair costs, improve public safety, and enhance the overall quality of life for District 7 residents; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the Committee on Streets and Services and the Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities are hereby authorized to hold joint hearings to examine the root causes of water main breaks and sinkholes in District 7 and to explore effective solutions for mitigating these occurrences, ensuring a safer and more sustainable infrastructure for City residents.

End