City of Austin

AUSTIN – In the heart of our city, Austin’s oldest water reservoir – at 110 years old − has been replaced with a new, 8-million-gallon reservoir and a new pump station that can provide 50 million gallons per day. The new North Austin Reservoir and Pump Station Project improves reliability for Austin Water customers and helps prepare our utility for the next 100 years. 

Today, Austin Water commemorated the completion of the North Austin Reservoir and Pump Station located at 826 Old Koenig Lane at the intersection of North Lamar, West Koenig and Old Koenig Lanes in North Central Austin. The reservoir has been a landmark in the neighborhood, serving residents and businesses in Brentwood, Allandale, Crestview and beyond for over 100 years.

“The completion of the North Austin Reservoir and Pump Station is an excellent example of how the City of Austin comes together to deliver on big projects with a collaborative, team approach,” Assistant City Manager Mike Rogers said.

The North Austin Reservoir is one of 38 reservoirs in the Austin Water distribution system, which store drinking water in strategic locations throughout the City to maintain water service and pressure. The old reservoir was demolished and the new one constructed in its place with no service interruptions to customers. A new pumping station and electrical facilities further enhance system resiliency and redundancy.

“This project has modernized drinking water infrastructure in the heart of our city. Our project team brought the new reservoir online a year ahead of schedule, further improving reliability for Austin Water’s customers,” Austin Water Director Shay Ralls Roalson explained.

The North Austin Reservoir and Pump Station is partially funded by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is administered by the Texas Water Development Board through low interest loans.   
   
“This project represents Austin Water’s commitment to investing in resiliency and preparedness. As we celebrate this significant accomplishment today, we also are preparing for the winter season ahead of us,” Roalson continued. “While Austin Water is taking steps to winterize our facilities and prepare for the upcoming winter season, we ask customers to prepare their homes and business for winter weather.” 

Winter Weather Tips

1. Locate your water shut-off 
   Ensure that everyone in your residence knows where the water main shut-off valve is, and make sure it is clear of debris. This valve should be near your water meter and knowing where it is and how to turn it off during a freezing weather emergency will save you time. 
    
2. Take care of exposed pipes and water heaters 
   Insulate pipes in unheated or drafty areas like attics or garages. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for tanked and tankless water heaters.
    
3. Turn off outside faucets
   Remove hoses and insulate faucets with towels or a Styrofoam insulator. Turn off and drain automatic sprinkler systems.
    
4. Have an emergency water supply for your family. 
   One gallon per person per day for 7 days is recommended.

Find more winter prep tips at Austin Water Cold Weather Tips | AustinTexas.gov

About Austin Water
Austin Water provides safe, reliable, high quality, sustainable and affordable water and wastewater services that have met the community’s needs for over 100 years. Austin Water serves over one million people in the Austin metropolitan area across more than 548 square miles.