WATER WORK 'FLUSHES' SYSTEM FOR QUALITY: CITY CREWS ALSO DOCUMENT FIRE HYDRANT FLOW
Posted: February 2nd, 2012 2:16 PM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2012-02/1046/51377/Greshams_Grant_Butte_Service_Area.pdf (The Grant Butte Service Area boundary in northeast Gresham will receive water quality and system maintenance flushing February through April.)
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2012-02/1046/51377/Flushing.JPG (Water Operations public utility worker Scott Griffin checks a water sample for clarity and chlorine levels during routine flushing. The City of Gresham's annual Water System Flushing Program cleans lines by removing built-up sediments that settle in wate)
GRESHAM, Ore. – The Water Division starts its annual water quality and system maintenance "flushing" program Feb. 6 in Gresham's northeast region, or Grant Butte Service Area. City crews will be at hydrants flushing water pipes to remove built-up sediments that settle in waterlines over time.
"The water main flushing program ensures that drinking water systems in Gresham are maintained in the best condition possible to meet the water quality and delivery needs of our community," said Water Manager Brian Stahl.
Residents who see water gushing from fire hydrants down the street into storm drains can be assured City crews are deliberately flushing or cleaning out the public water system. Last year crews flushed 53 miles of waterline.
In addition to cleaning water pipes, the flushing program allows City crews to identify any malfunctioning valves or problems with hydrants.
Flushing will take place from February through April in both residential and some commercial districts. Crews will flush between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays in neighborhoods and at night, between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., in high activity and commercial areas to limit inconvenience to businesses and their customers.
Residents will see advance signage placed in the neighborhood or may visit the City's website daily for the flushing schedule: GreshamOregon.gov/water.
Flushing activities may stir up sediment in the water system, causing temporary discolored water. If crews are flushing in the neighborhood, the Water Division recommends customers keep discolored water out of their private systems by not turning on the water or operating appliances that use water (such as dishwashers and washing machines) while crews are working in the area.
If customers noticed discolored water in their private systems during flushing in the neighborhood, staff recommends following these steps before running any appliances that require water:
1. Turn on each cold-water faucet and allow the water to run until it's clear again.
2. Flush each toilet two times.
3. Still an issue? Call the Operations Center at 503-618-2626.
Gresham's flushing program takes place during the rain-heavy winter and spring months to support water conservation efforts. The goal of the Water System Flushing Program is to complete one-third of the public water system each year. The Water Division maintains more than 250 miles of waterlines.
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