Update on Water Main Breaks Along Century Avenue

Residents and travelers along Century Avenue near the Baskerville neighborhood have likely noticed recurring water main breaks in this area. The City of Middleton Water Utility is providing background on why these breaks occur, what factors contribute to them, and how both the City and Dane County are planning for long-term solutions.

Aging Infrastructure
The water main between Dewey Court and Baskerville Avenue was installed in 1958. This 1,400-foot stretch runs beneath Pheasant Branch Creek and the bridge, adding to its complexity. While it directly serves only a few homes, it also supports water demand for the east and northeast areas of the City.

Contributing Factors
Over time, crews have determined that soil conditions, corrosive materials, and debris surrounding the pipe have caused the iron main to wear down. In some cases, this has led to sudden breaks that release large amounts of water, creating noticeable impacts on the roadway. Cold winters can also accelerate the problem. When frost penetrates deeply into the ground, breaks become more challenging to locate and repair quickly. To help address this, the utility has proposed investing in leak-detection equipment in the 2026 budget.

Recent and Upcoming Work
In 2024, mains on nearby Dewey Court and Lake Street were replaced due to similar issues. For Century Avenue, however, replacement must align with Dane County’s reconstruction schedule since the roadway is County-owned. The County plans to rebuild this section of Century Avenue in 2029, following the replacement of the bridge at Century Avenue and Branch Street in 2027. In the meantime, City staff are evaluating several options to ensure reliable service, including measures that could improve water pressure and supply beyond replacing the existing line.

Moving Forward
The City understands that water main breaks are disruptive and remains committed to addressing them as efficiently and safely as possible. Utility crews work in challenging conditions to restore service and minimize impacts.

“We know these breaks cause frustration for residents and travelers,” said Mike Meier, Utility Manager. “ Our crews work tirelessly to restore service quickly, and we are investing in long-term planning to ensure reliable service for the community.”

The City of Middleton appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as planning and improvements continue.