Posted: June 05, 2009 08:53:43 PST
The City of Bellingham Public Works Department will continue the annual water main flushing program in several neighborhoods through the month of June. Water main flushing cleans the pipes of mineral deposits that naturally build up on the inside walls of the pipes. If the pipes are not periodically flushed, the build-up can reduce the capacity and the efficiency of the water distribution system. The water used during the flushing operation is de-chlorinated before it is discharged into the city storm drainage system.
It is not uncommon for the flushing activity to cause temporary discoloration of the water. The discolored water is not harmful to human health or other household uses. If the water in your residence is discolored, run a cold water tap in the bathtub for a few minutes. This should clear the water pipes in your house. Discolored water will be very minimal compared to past years as we do not flush the mains as hard as we have in current years. Customers are advised not to wash clothes or use their hot water taps when crews are flushing in their area (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), as mineral deposits may get into your hot water heater and could stain white laundry.
From June 8 through June 30, the following areas will be flushed:
Central Business District
Western Washington University
South Hill Neighborhood
Fairhaven Neighborhood
South Neighborhood
Happy Valley Neighborhood
If you have any questions regarding the flushing activity, please contact the City of Bellingham Public Works Department at 778-7700 or email mgray@cob.org.
###
Media Contact:
Geoff Smyth, Utility Superintendent
Public Works
778-7700
gsmyth@cob.org
