Water Main Flushing in Puget Neighborhood

Annual water main flushing continues

From Monday, May 7, 2012 through Friday, May 25, 2012 the following areas will be flushed:

• Northshore Dr., Alabama Hill and Silverbeach neighborhoods, Electric Ave.
• Lakeway Dr., Whatcom Falls Park, and Puget Neighborhood
• North and south of Alabama St. from Ellis to Broadway streets, Lettered Streets Neighborhood
• Columbia, Eldridge Ave. and the Central Business District.

The City of Bellingham Public Works Department continues the annual water main flushing program on Monday, May 7, 2012. 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. Water used during the flushing operation is de-chlorinated before being discharged into the city storm drain system.

It is common 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 your water lines.  To avoid stains on white laundry, customers are advised not to wash white clothes or use their hot water taps when crews are flushing in their area (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Iron mineral deposits may stain white laundry.

 

If you have any questions regarding the flushing activity, please contact the City of Bellingham Public Works Department at 778-7700 or emailmgray@cob.org.