Water service was restored to Cortez and Anna Maria Island on Friday, November 13, after unexpected complications during a planned water main tie-in extended an overnight shutdown into the afternoon.
Manatee County Utilities confirmed that full water service was restored to all affected areas by 1:30 p.m. Friday. However, impacted customers remain under a precautionary boil water notice until bacteriological testing confirms the water is safe for consumption.
The interruption began at 9 p.m. Thursday as crews worked to complete a scheduled water main connection. During the project, contractors encountered unexpected pipe alignment problems that required additional work and restraints to safely secure the large water main before restoring pressure.
According to Manatee County Utilities Deputy Director Nickolas Wagner, the additional precautions were necessary to ensure the system was properly secured and air was safely removed before restoring full water pressure. The measures were intended to prevent potential damage to homes and businesses.
The extended outage disrupted several businesses throughout Cortez and Anna Maria Island. The Moose Lodge on Anna Maria Island announced a temporary closure on Friday morning, while restaurants, including Swordfish Grill, kept employees on standby awaiting the return of water service.
Other establishments implemented contingency plans to remain operational. Drift In Tiki Hut brought in bottled water, canned beverages, and portable restrooms, using emergency preparation strategies developed during previous hurricanes. The preparations allowed the business to continue serving customers despite the interruption.
The outage also required additional precautions from emergency responders. West Manatee Fire Rescue remained prepared to respond to fires without relying on the affected hydrant system. Department apparatus carries approximately 1,000 gallons of water, allowing firefighters to begin emergency operations even when hydrant service is unavailable.
Although normal water service has resumed, the precautionary boil water notice remains in effect for affected customers. Bacteriological testing typically takes 24 to 48 hours, and Manatee County Utilities will issue an official rescission notice once testing confirms the water meets safety standards.
Until the notice is lifted, affected residents and businesses should bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or preparing food.
Manatee County Utilities will provide additional updates as testing is completed and the precautionary notice is lifted.