On September 17, Utility crews will begin a system-wide flush of the City’s entire water distribution system. Crews will work 7 days a week between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. It is anticipated the flushing project will be complete on or before October 1.

Hydrant flushing is an important function undertaken by the Utility Systems Department in order to maintain the highest quality of water possible for the more than 70,000 Utility customers.

What should residents do when hydrants are being flushed in their neighborhood?

• Use caution and drive carefully though areas where hydrant flushing is taking place.
• Avoid running excessive amounts of tap water including, but not limited to, bath/shower water, washing machines, and dishwashers.
• Tap water used during flushing could contain sediment that causes temporary discoloration.
• Do not be alarmed, there is no health hazard associated with the discolored water.
• If you encounter discolored water, shut it off and wait several minutes before trying again.
• If water is still discolored, leave it on and allow fresh water to work its way into your home’s pipes.

Why is flushing necessary?

• The overall result of hydrant flushing is improved water quality, color and clarity throughout the entire water distribution system, including 1,200 miles of potable water mains and 5,400 fire hydrants.
• Flushing is necessary to ensure there is adequate flow and pressure in the City’s water pipes. It also verifies there is a sufficient flow of water for fighting fires.

Hydrant flushing is not a waste of water because:

• The flushed water is returned to the water cycle as it percolates into the ground and replenishes the water source aquifers.
• Only the amount of water needed to maintain water quality is flushed. The amount of water used during flushing operations and the cost of that water is small compared to the benefits of maintaining the Utility’s water mains and fire hydrants.

Crew work area schedule (Download City Area map):

• Sept. 17 - Area 1, Area 31
• Sept. 18 - Area 2, Area 32
• Sept. 19 - Area 3, Area 34
• Sept. 20 - Area 4, Area 33
• Sept. 21 - Area 5, Area 35
• Sept. 22 - Area 22, Area 6, Area 37
• Sept. 23 - Area 7, Area 38
• Sept. 24 - Area 8, Area 39
• Sept. 25 - Area 30
• Sept. 26 - Area 18, Area 29
• Sept. 27 - Area 19, Area 24
• Sept. 28 - Area 20, Area 36
• Sept. 29 - Area 21, Area 23
• Sept. 30 - Area 27
• Oct. 1 - Area 25, Area 26, Area 28

For more information, contact:
Jenny Tomes
Project Coordinator-Utility Outreach
(772) 871-5131
jtomes@cityofpsl.com