Sinkhole on Bee Road damages two city water mains over the weekend, officials give update

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - [UPDATE] The City of Savannah announced all previously affected sections of Bee Road between 50th and 52nd Streets have reopened.

The city said roadway failure was caused by damage to two water mains, which resulted in a sinkhole. City of Savannah crews repaired both water mains and restored the roadway over the weekend and into this week. 

[ORIGINAL STORY] The city of Savannah has lifted a boil water advisory following repairs to two damaged water mains on Bee Road, though officials have not yet explained how the sinkhole that triggered the incident developed.

The advisory affected residents along Bee Road, including East 50th Street, East 51st Street and Grenoble Street.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Boil Water advisory lifted for Bee Road residents after water main break

How the damage occurred

The city previously said a six-inch water main began leaking at a brace point early Saturday, causing a sinkhole to form. A motorist later drove through the water-covered area, damaging a second, eight-inch water main.

Water Distribution Manager Ann Pennell said she could not yet explain exactly how the sinkhole developed.

“I cannot say it at this time,” Pennell said.

Repairs and next steps

Crews have since repaired the lines, flushed the system and collected water samples for testing. City officials said Savannah’s water operations have returned to normal.

Pennell encouraged residents to report any water issues to the city.

“We are continuing to work on anything that we find so it’s really great if the resident could report... if they see water, a leak, or anything, please contact 311,” Pennell said.