For those thinking they saw individuals diving in scuba gear at Deegan Lake today, they weren’t seeing things. Workers from Underwater Services out of Poca – from Putnam County – were at the lakes this morning to try and handle what has been an ongoing issue with a pipe.

 

“We have a pipe that is leaking and we have brought them in to investigate the matter for us,” said Bridgeport City Engineer Tom Brown.

 

About a half dozen workers were on site this morning at the backside of Deegan Lake – close to Hinkle Lake – handling various aspects of the work. One individual was in the lake maneuvering near the concrete culvert hoping to locate the source of the leak.

 

“The problem is likely in a two-part pipe and many are familiar with the concrete box culvert that is in the lake and that pipe connects into a new HDPE (high density polyethylene) where we increased the length of the dam where the recent upgrades were made. That pipe connecting the new area is releasing, or leaking, water faster than it should,” said Brown.

 

Brown said the water is noticeable as it goes through the pipe area wherever the breach may be into a stream and eventually into Deegan Lake. The water then finds its way into Simpson Creek.

 

So is there any cause for concern by residents or property owners near the lakes?

 

“This is nothing that should be of worry to anyone. It also is not a safety issue,” Brown said.

 

Brown said the contractors have the capability to fix many of the issues that could be resulting in the additional water. He said if it’s under their scope of work and somewhat easy then the contractor will likely fix the problem. If it turns out to be something more complicated, city staff or other methods will be considered. 

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows a diver working to help locate a leak in a pipe at Deegan Lake, while workers are shown below making sure all necessary safety issues are addressed as the dive was taking place Monday.