Water valve break cancels classes at Center Avenue
A failed 4-inch water service valve to Center Avenue Community School in Butler caused classes to be canceled Tuesday, authorities said.
Brian White, superintendent of schools for Butler, said the district was notified of the break early Tuesday and was informed the school would be without water until noon at the earliest.
Water service was restored at 1 p.m.
“Unfortunately, we didn't have any options and had to cancel Center Avenue school,” White said.
The district notified parents via multiple methods, and students who were en route were bused home.
Pennsylvania American Water Co. crews responded around midnight and started repairs about 2 a.m., according to Gary Lobaugh, external affairs manager for the company.Before digging, he noted, the company was required by state law to contact Pennsylvania One Call, a nonprofit business created specifically to coordinate efforts to locate underground utilities and pipes.The break in the valve, which was installed in 1935, disrupted service to the school and eight surrounding customers.
