A Free Call Before Any Digging Project Helps Protect Underground Infrastructure and Prevent Service Interruptions

Whether planting a tree, installing a fence or starting a backyard improvement project, the Plainview Water District (PWD) is reminding residents and contractors that calling New York 811 before digging is one of the most important steps in protecting underground utilities and preventing unnecessary service interruptions. While National 811 Day each August helps raise awareness, the District encourages the Plainview-Old Bethpage community to make contacting 811 a year-round habit.

“Many outdoor projects begin with a shovel, but they should always begin with a call to 811,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “A simple, free request to have underground utilities marked can help avoid damage to critical infrastructure, prevent costly repairs and minimize disruptions that can affect homes, businesses and entire neighborhoods.”

New York 811 is a free notification service that coordinates with utility providers to identify and mark the approximate locations of underground utility lines before excavation begins. Residents are encouraged to contact 811 at least two to ten working days before starting any digging project, giving utility companies time to mark buried infrastructure. Even relatively shallow digging can come into contact with underground water mains, service lines, gas lines, electric cables or communication lines.

Common projects that require a call to 811 include:

• Installing fences, decks or mailboxes.
• Planting trees, shrubs or large landscaping features.
• Building patios, sheds or swimming pools.
• Replacing driveways or walkways.
• Installing swing sets, basketball hoops or other outdoor equipment.

“Underground infrastructure is easy to overlook because we don’t see it every day, but it plays an essential role in our daily lives,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Calling 811 before digging is a simple step that helps protect vital utility systems while allowing projects to move forward without unexpected delays or damage.”

In addition to contacting New York 811, residents with questions about their property’s water service or water infrastructure are encouraged to contact the Plainview Water District before beginning work. District staff are available to answer questions and help customers better understand their water service connections.

“Preventing damage to underground water infrastructure benefits the entire community,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “When residents take a few minutes to plan ahead before digging, they help reduce the likelihood of service interruptions and protect the infrastructure that delivers water throughout Plainview-Old Bethpage.”

For further information, or if you have any questions, please call the District at 516-931-6469, email info@plainviewwater.org or visit www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.