SOUTHWEST DETROIT (WXYZ) — This past weekend, a makeshift distribution center opened near the broken water main in Southwest Detroit, with volunteers bringing essential items closer to those in need.
Organizers say the private donations were distributed to 500 people.
A spokesman with the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department says the city has cleaned out 12 basements since Friday and may possibly clean another 30 basements today. Also, we're told the first wave of residents should be able to return to their homes today.
The city offered to lodge impacted residents in hotels. Cindy Blakey's Family took up the city on that offer, returning home on Sunday afternoon to watch a pipe burst.
"Just happened when I came in. Yea, I went down in the basement. I seen this. It's a nightmare. I couldn't find anywhere to shut it off at," Cindy said. "Now I got to fill out another form because of the pipes. I already filled it all out. Now, I gotta do it again."
DWSD spokesman Bryan Peckinpaugh said, "Some homes will experience burst plumbing if they don't have heat and were unable to turn the water off in the basement. Our contractors will have the capacity for plumbing repairs in addition to furnaces/boilers, hot water tanks, and electrical. The inspection once we clean the basements will determine what repairs are required."
The city said it expects to receive an update on the water main's repair progress from Great Lakes Water Authority later today.
WATCH OUR PREVIOUS SW DETROIT FLOODING CLEAN-UP COVERAGE
