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City to commence annual water main flushing program

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed February 22, 2016 10:30 AM

Summary

The City of Nanaimo's Engineering and Public Works Department will be commencing its annual water main flushing program this month. Starting in February City crews will be flushing water supply mains from the South Forks dam into to the City. Then, between March and May, crews will flush water distribution mains located throughout the City.

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 website.

Link to Strategic Plan: Taking responsibility to be an excellent municipal government.

Key Points

  • Crews will start by flushing mains in the Cinnabar area, then through town, finishing in the north end of Nanaimo.
  • Residents are asked to minimize their water consumption if a change in water appearance is noticed. To clear water lines, residents are advised to turn on their cold water tap until the water runs clear.
  • Anyone with a weakened immune system should reference information on Island Health’s website.
  • Potable water is flushed at a high velocity through local water mains to ensure that all piping is refreshed and minor sediment within the pipes is removed.

Quotes

"To help keep Nanaimo's water safe and clean, one thing we do on an annual basis is flush the water mains. This keeps them free of any sediment that may occur in them during the year."

John Elliot
Manager of Utilities
City of Nanaimo

Quick Facts

  • Every year the City of Nanaimo’s Water Main Flushing Program washes out over 90km of water supply mains and over 536km of distribution water mains.
  • Residents are encouraged to visit the City's website to access more information concerning when City crews will flush pipes in specific neighbourhoods.
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Contact:

John Elliot
Manager of Utilities
City of Nanaimo
250-756-5305

Print News Release

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