SOUTHWICK – The DPW (Department of Public Works) has started a hydrant flushing project this week. DPW workers will flush hydrants every Wednesday between the times of 3 a.m. and 7 a.m.
Workers began flushing hydrants this past Wednesday on Feeding Hills Road, Powder Mill Road, and the streets surrounding those neighborhoods. Completing that area will take the next few weeks.
Hydrant on Feeding Hills Road. (Photo by Greg Fitzpatrick)
According to DPW Director Randy Brown, not every single hydrant in town will be flushed, only select ones will be utilized.
Brown noted that the hydrant flushing happens every fall and helps clear out the water mains of the hydrant and more importantly gets rid of the tuberculation, which is material that builds on the walls in the pipeline of the hydrant. This will also flush the air out of the system.
The town-wide exercise also allows the DPW to tackle any maintenance of the hydrants.
“It’s a good chance for us to check and operate the hydrants,” said Brown.
Due to the hydrant flushing, Brown wants residents to be aware, but not be concerned, if they experience a drop in the water pressure and discoloration of their water.
“The discoloration of the water is only temporary and does not indicate a problem with the water,” said Brown on the DPW town page. “If your water does become discolored, turn on an outside faucet to clear the water line.”
If the public has any questions or comments to make about the town-wide flushing, contact the DPW at 413-569-6772.
