Full Breakdown
Sunset Boulevard Reopening Delayed by New Leak After Massive Water Main Break
7/24/2026, 2:29:48 PM
Core Event
A second leak was discovered on Wednesday night while crews were back-filling the work area on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. Water began to pool at the surface of the compacted concrete aggregate base, prompting LADWP crews to excavate a 3-by-4-foot section and weld a patch. The utility said the leak is “pinhole sized.” Repairs are slated to be completed by late Friday, allowing a temporary repaving that will restore traffic flow, though permanent work will continue in the coming weeks.
Background & Context
The disruption began on July 16, when a 36-inch water pipe burst at Sunset Boulevard and Palm Avenue, releasing roughly 17 million gallons of water onto streets, into underground garages and onto businesses. The pipe, a riveted steel line installed in 1916, is part of a 547-mile network of trunk lines that many officials say is approaching the end of its useful life. Initial repairs to the three-foot-wide trunk line were completed, and the street was expected to reopen later in the week before the new leak emerged.
Official Statements & Responses
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) explained that while compacting the concrete aggregate base in advance of final street resurfacing, water began to pool at the surface toward the eastern edge of the work area. After welding the pinhole leak, LADWP crews will slowly refill and repressurize the pipe, monitor for further issues, and then backfill and temporarily repave the area as part of the emergency response. The utility indicated that the street should be reopened by late Friday.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local residents expressed frustration with the prolonged construction. One neighbor described the experience as “hellish,” citing 24-hour construction, jackhammer noise, and bright lights shining into homes. Community sentiment reflects a desire for the disruption to end quickly.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While compacting the concrete aggregate base in advance of final street resurfacing, water began to pool at the surface toward the eastern edge of the work area,” — The LADWP
