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City's annual water main flushing program is underway.

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed March 14, 2018 11:00 AM

Summary

The City of Nanaimo's Engineering and Public Works Department has commenced its annual water main flushing program. While this program is underway, short periods of low pressure and discoloured water may be expected. Any discolouration is temporary and not a health hazard.

For more information about the water main flushing program and a neighbourhood flushing schedule, visit the city's website.

Link to Strategic Plan: Annual flushing of the City's water mains supports Asset Management.

Key Points

  • The flushing program works from the south end of the city to the north. In each area, clean drinking water is flushed at a high velocity through water mains to ensure that all piping is refreshed and any minor sediment within the pipes is removed.
  • The flushing program will again be significantly scaled back this year due to filtered water entering the system from the City's water treatment plant. With no sediment entering the system, the program will move along quickly, reducing inconvenience to residents and businesses, and costs for staff time and equipment.
  • Residents are asked to minimize their water consumption if a change in water appearance is noticed. To clear water lines at home, residents are advised to turn on a cold water tap until the water runs clear. The condition is temporary and is not detrimental to health.
  • Anyone with a weakened immune system should reference information on Island Health’s website.

Quotes

"Following over two years of successful operation of the water treatment plant, we expect to find very little build up in our water distribution system. This year, we will focus our water main flushing on dead end mains and will monitor water quality as the program moves through the city.

We anticipate significant cost savings for the reduced flushing program, directly attributable to the operation of the water treatment plant."

John Elliot
Senior Manager of Public Works
City of Nanaimo

Quick Facts

  • In previous years, the City of Nanaimo’s Water Main Flushing Program washed out over 95km of water supply mains and over 539km of distribution water mains. This year, we will proceed with a significantly scaled back Program due to the high quality, treated water coming into the system.
  • Residents are encouraged to visit the city's website to access more information concerning when City crews will flush pipes in specific neighbourhoods, and to follow our progress.
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Contact:

John Elliot
Manager of Utilities
City of Nanaimo
250-758-5222

Print News Release

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