Drought might force Wichita to idle fountains

A drought-induced water shortage could force Wichita officials to idle the city’s $3.5 million WaterWalk Waltzing Waters fountain system and other fountains throughout the city this summer.

City Manager Robert Layton says water use across all city operations is under review. The Wichita Eagle reports city officials are preparing a water conservation plan for residential and commercial users to confront the shortage and prevent even greater deficits.

The fountains incorporate 150-foot-high streams of water synchronized to lights and music. They are part of a larger $41 million development agreement between the city and WaterWalk, owned by a local developer.

City officials say Cheney Reservoir could dry up by mid-2015 if the drought continues, and the city would no longer have enough water to meet demand if that happens.

Information from: The Wichita (Kan.) Eagle