Water Main Break causes classes to move online

Butler Community College residents and staff received an alert on Sunday, Aug 23 around 8 p.m., informing them of an on campus water main break on the El Dorado campus. Classes were canceled and instructors were made aware of changing conditions to allow them time to adjust their lessons to the virtual learning policy. Many students were affected by this sudden evening change, some having to find last minute alternatives off campus for hygienic necessities.

“I couldn't even brush my teeth, I couldn’t use the bathroom.” freshman Savannah Sanders, one of the student residents affected by the water main break said, “I went to the YMCA and used the bathroom there, and then I took a shower at the Villas. I don’t think my teachers even assigned anything if I’m being honest.”

With the switch to virtual learning, many students had no idea when another update from GrizzlySafe would be sent. Almost exactly 24 hours later on Monday, Aug 24, near 8 p.m., residents and staff received another message stating that the main break had been repaired.

“Thanks to the work of Facilities Management leadership, the water main break that forced the implementation of the Virtual Learning Policy at the Butler of El Dorado campus has been repaired to the point of allowing all classes and offices to return to full operation tomorrow, Tuesday, Aug 25.” The message assured students that all buildings except for the 700 building currently have running water; however, it would still be air conditioned.

At 4:30 p.m. that same day, employees received an email elaborating on the repairs. “It appears the ground has settled, causing the pipe to break where it passes through the building wall.” Director of Facilities Management Ireland Turner said. He assured the staff that contractors would arrive to remove dirt and concrete around underground pipes to make room for them to begin remaining repairs.

Friday, Aug 28, residents and staff received an alert informing them that the final repairs to the water main break outside of the 700 building would begin at 1:00 p.m. that day, lasting for two hours and only impacting the El Dorado campus.