SODA SPRINGS — The famous Soda Springs geyser is expected to resume its regular eruptions before the end of summer after being shut down for the past few months due to maintenance issues.

The geyser has been closed since this past spring when its primary and secondary valves failed. City Councilman Ryan Carpenter said repairs are progressing and new parts should be installed within the next three to four weeks.

”It’s not like you go and grab these kinds of parts off the shelf anywhere,” Carpenter said. “No one knows when these valves were installed, so that tells us how old they are. This fix needed to happen and I’m thrilled it’s close to being active again.”

The closure of the geyser has disappointed residents and travelers who come to see one of the world’s only captive geysers that operates on a regular schedule.

The geyser serves as both a unique geological feature and the cornerstone of this community’s identity. As one of the last such geysers in existence, it draws crowds of visitors who support local businesses and keep this rural town thriving.

Thanks to Rust Automations, Perks Electric and city department heads Justin Hansen and Dan Squires and their crews, repairs are underway.

”We are lucky for companies like Rust Automations who see the same value in the geyser as we do,” Carpenter said. “They have been more than fair and quick to respond to the job.”

A new valve has been designed and is being manufactured to withstand 500,000 cycles in the harsh environment where the geyser operates. The upgrade should restore the geyser to full functionality and draw tourists back to the area.{/div}{/div}