History Channel Series Inspector America Features LADWP Water System Crews in Action

Documentary-Style Production Provides Riveting Glimpse of the Hard Work Performed by Employees and the Challenges Confronting Water Utilities

The LADWP Water System and its hardworking crews are the subjects of focus in "A Bridge Too Old," episode #2 of the History Channel's new documentary series Inspector America. In the episode, LADWP Water Operations Director Marty Adams takes show host Timothy Galarnyk and viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour of Los Angeles’ water infrastructure network to learn about the profound challenges that confront the nation’s largest municipal utility as we continue to maintain and rebuild our colossal hundred-plus-year old water system. Going deep into the trenches of projects on both the original Los Angeles Aqueduct and LADWP’s First Street trunk line installation, Galarnyk witnesses first-hand the immense work, raw determination and skill required to accomplish the profound work crew members perform each day.  

The episode also features commentary from Catherine Mulholland, the great granddaughter of William Mulholland, LADWP’s legendary first superintendent and chief engineer, who discusses the impact her great grandfather’s dream of building the Los Angeles Aqueduct to transport water from the Eastern Sierra mountains to Los Angeles had on the growth of the city.

Though typically unseen, underground water distribution pipelines perform the all-important service of delivering water into L.A.’s homes and businesses. As with all such systems, LADWP’s water infrastructure is continually aging, and today approximately two-thirds of our pipe infrastructure is over 50 years old. In 2007, the Department completed a cement-mortar lining program to extend the life of 1,970 miles of pipes - one-quarter of the system - by 50 years, and also launched a formal water main replacement program to systematically replace the most vulnerable pipes in Los Angeles. Both programs are intended to minimize main leaks, service interruptions to customers, and potential property damage. Over the long-term, the programs will also reduce water main maintenance costs, improve water quality, reduce water loss due to leakage, and improve water flow for fire emergencies.

With more than 7,200 miles of pipeline, LADWP has a significant task ahead but through effective asset management and pro-active maintenance practices, LADWP will continue to maintain the structural integrity of our pipe infrastructure and continue its reliable service for many years to come. With "A Bridge Too Old," Inspector America examines these programs from the street level, and below.

About Inspector America
America has one of the greatest infrastructures in history. Roadways, dams, tunnels and bridges were built to last. But over the decades, the infrastructure that helped our country grow hasn't kept up with the times. Now, the History Channel sets out to inspect the country to see what is up to code and what needs to be fixed. Timothy Galarnyk, an infrastructure safety inspector with over 35 years of experience, hosts Inspector America, a new one-hour series premiering on the History Channel. Galarnyk’s initial sweep takes him to six American locations that have infrastructure challenges. He uses the tools of his trade to evaluate the structures, gauge dangers and offer opinions on how to deal with it. Galarnyk also highlights the good news and positive projects in the area.

Viewing of Inspector America's "A Bridge Too Old" is available online.

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