Cast-iron water main replacements underway

Cast-iron water main replacements underway

Published on September 26, 2025

The Fort Worth water utility is actively working on 205 miles of the 730 miles of cast-iron water mains, aiming to prevent frequent breaks. The 205 miles account for projects currently in construction or design.

Why it matters: Cast-iron pipes are responsible for over 85% of annual main breaks. The February 2021 winter storm caused more than 700 breaks in cast-iron water lines.

• The department's response includes a replacement goal of 20 miles per year.

The big picture: The August 2023 break on West Lancaster Avenue highlighted risks associated with large-diameter cast-iron water main failures. This prompted prioritizing replacing the 58 miles of 16-inch and larger pipes.

• Twenty-five miles of these water transmission mains are in construction or design.

What's next: Large- and small-diameter cast-iron rehabilitation projects are added annually to the list of projects in design. Projects go to construction as funding becomes available. The goal is to complete installation of the 18 large-diameter, cast-iron water line replacement projects currently in design or construction by 2030.

Learn more: See how City infrastructure departments are collaborating to protect public investment, reduce construction fatigue for residents and ensure that streets and utilities are built to last.

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• Infrastructure Update