Ottawa's new water tower on Montana Road, southeast of town, is close to going into service. Construction has taken nearly three years, and crews are now running tests. Utilities Director Scott Snethen told KOFO the city is almost ready to bring it online.

The first attempt to switch over ran into trouble in April. Higher pressure from the new tower caused leaks and water main breaks around town, and the city called off the switch while it worked on a new model to even out pressure swings. The two towers built in 1952, on 15th Street and on the north side, are to be phased out eventually.

Snethen also gave an update on a breaker replacement he has been planning. He said he sees both projects as crucial to Ottawa's long-term planning and growth.

For details, see KOFO's reports on the tower's testing and the April setback.