No Shutdowns, No Setbacks: The Smart Valve Strategy Behind Englewood's Water Upgrade

The City of Englewood, Colorado, faced a critical challenge while implementing its Lead Reduction Program: replacing approximately 3,000 lead service lines without disrupting water services. With much of the city’s water infrastructure dating back to the early 20th century, isolating key sections for maintenance was difficult. During the program’s early phase, a 12” water main broke in a key commercial area, revealing systemic vulnerabilities. To address this, the city partnered with Municipal Pipe Services and AGL Construction to deploy 91 Hydra-Stop Insta-Valves, a cutting-edge insertion valve technology, which allowed for precise isolation of critical water main sections without complete shutdowns.

Since March 2025, 53 valves have been installed, ensuring safe and efficient lead line replacements while maintaining uninterrupted water service for residents and businesses. This strategic approach not only accelerated the project timeline but also minimized the risk of uncontrolled leaks, making it a model of proactive infrastructure management. Englewood Utilities now has greater control over its aging network, securing reliable water delivery for its community.