OKC to Begin Demolition of Aging Water Storage Tank in December
The Oklahoma City Utilities Department will begin tearing down and replacing one of its two water storage tanks at the City’s booster station located at NW 52nd Street and Colfax Place the week of Dec. 1. The work marks the start of a three-phase project designed to upgrade key infrastructure within the city’s treated water distribution system.
Tank Removal Marks Phase One of Multi-Year Upgrade
Demolition Expected to Finish Before Christmas
Crews will demolish the south water tank, which has reached the end of its service life and is no longer in operation. The department expects demolition to take about three weeks, with completion planned before the Christmas holiday.
Neighbors near the booster station may notice increased noise, dirt and vibrations during demolition activities. They may also see heavy construction equipment operating in easements and public rights-of-way. Officials emphasize that all demolition and future construction will occur on Utilities-owned property, and the work should result in minimal impact to streets or traffic.
Booster Station to Maintain Normal Pressures
No Anticipated Changes to Water Quality or Service
The booster station draws treated water from the Hefner Water Treatment Plant and supplies customers along the Northwest Expressway corridor.
The Utilities Department said water customers should not expect changes to water pressure or water quality during demolition or construction. Anyone who does experience a sudden shift in service is encouraged to call Utilities Customer Service at (405) 297-2833.
New Tank Coming in 2026
Second Tank Replacement Scheduled for 2027
Phase two of the project begins in 2026, when construction crews will build a new water storage tank on the same site, positioned near where the demolished tank once stood.
Phase three, scheduled for 2027, includes demolition and replacement of the second tank at the booster station. The Utilities Department deliberately staggered the replacement timeline to maintain ample water supply and optimal pressure for customers throughout the upgrade process.
OKC’s Water Reach Continues to Grow
System Serves More Than 1.5 Million Residents
The City of Oklahoma City provides water service to more than 1.5 million people across Central Oklahoma. The system covers Oklahoma City as well as 17 surrounding communities and wholesale customers, relying on its network of treatment plants, booster stations and storage tanks to maintain reliable service throughout the region.