Water Pressure Issues Cause Restaurant Closures in Mandarin, Florida

Recent low water pressure in the Mandarin area has led to the closure of several restaurants, including McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Denny's, due to the inability to operate essential systems such as soda fountains, dishwashers, and toilets. The problems are attributed to smaller-than-average water pipes installed at these businesses, which have exacerbated the issue caused by a lack of rain and increased demand on the city's water supply.

Key Takeaways:

• McDonald's restaurant on Old St. Augustine Road closed at 6 p.m. on Wednesday due to water pressure issues, turning away several families and customers.
• Taco Bell has closed early about eight times since Memorial Day due to the water pressure problems, with employees citing insufficient water to operate soda fountains, make ice cubes, and wash trays.
• Denny's employees have reported issues with making coffee, operating the juice machine, and getting the dishwashing machine to work, with one employee warning customers of potential hour-long delays in food orders.
• The Jacksonville Electrical Authority (JEA) attributes the problem to smaller-than-average water pipes installed at the affected businesses, which are now experiencing lower water bills as a result.
• A 20-inch water main scheduled to be completed on July 1 is expected to increase water flow to the Mandarin area and resolve the issue.
• State regulators have applauded the restaurants for taking safety precautions, as they are required to shut down if they do not have adequate supplies of hot and cold water.

Statistics:

• 3: The number of restaurants affected by the water pressure issues, including McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Denny's.
• 8: The number of times Taco Bell has closed early since Memorial Day due to water pressure problems.
• 20 inches: The diameter of the water main scheduled for completion on July 1, expected to increase water flow to the Mandarin area.
• July 1: The anticipated completion date of the 20-inch water main.

Sources:

• "JEA". JEA spokesman Clyde Montgomery.
• "Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations". Spokesman Dave Fountain.