BPU: Monmouth Water Pipe Collapse Could Have Been Avoided

Last summer's pipe collapse that plunged Monmouth County into a state of emergency, could have been avoided. 

Collapsed portion of Swimming River Pipeline Bridge

That's the finding from a 67-page Bureau Of Public Utilities investigation report that says New Jersey American Water missed opportunities to prevent it.

A wooden bridge supporting 3 water pipes over the Swimming River Reservoir in Middletown collapsed on June 29, restricting water for 55,000 customers in Monmouth County during one of the hottest weekends of the summer. A state of emergency and water rationing orders were issued as crews worked to restore temporary service.

The company is in the process of making modifications to prevent future problems.