The annual water main flushing program by the City's Public Works department will begin on Monday, April 17. 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. The water used during the flushing operation is de-chlorinated before it is discharged into the city storm drainage system.
It is not uncommon for this flushing 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 the lines in your house. Customers are advised not to wash white clothes or use their hot water taps when crews are flushing in their area (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), as mineral deposits (mostly iron) may stain white laundry.
From Monday, April 17 through Friday, May 12, the following areas will be flushed:
- W. Bakerview Road, Airport area, Bennett Drive, Northwest Road, Aldrich Road, Cordata neighborhood, Guide Meridian from Bakerview north to city limits.
- Northwest Avenue, Maplewood Avenue, James Street Road north of Sunset Drive
- Hannegan Road, E. Sunset Drive and Mount. Baker Highway
- Tweed Twenty area, north and south of Alabama Street from St. Claire to Ellis St.
If you have any questions regarding the flushing activity, please contact the City of Bellingham Public Works Department at (360) 778-7700 or email mgray@cob.org.
