It’s Spring Water Main/Hydrant Flushing Time In Tewksbury

Work begins this week and continues through July

The Town of Tewksbury Department of Public Works will begin its Spring water main/hydrant flushing program the week of May 20. Water main/hydrant flushing activities will be conducted in the evenings between 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, to minimize the impacts to residents.

This program ensures all areas of town have high-quality water and helps to properly maintain and clean our piping network. The 2024 Spring Flushing program should last approximately six weeks and is targeted to include all areas of Tewksbury. 

During this time, you may notice episodes of decreased water pressure or discoloration of your water.  Water discoloration results from temporary disturbances of the normal water flow within our piping network. The water is always safe for consumption as it is chlorinated, and the off color is essentially rust (iron). These short-term changes in flow can also stir up naturally occurring minerals and sediment that settle within the water mains. The objective of the water main/hydrant flushing program is to remove these accumulated sediments from our pipes by flushing the water out of the fire hydrants.

The Town will place variable-message signs in areas targeted for flushing during the week, as well as post updates to the town website on general work areas. 

If water discoloration occurs, try to refrain from using hot water for washing laundry, etc., and run your cold water faucets until the water appears clear. If you notice extreme discoloration, refrain from washing white laundry. If your laundry gets stained, contact the DPW, which can provide a product that may reverse the staining.  

Speaking of water, residents can access their water usage data through the Tewksbury Water Division’s EyeOnWater suite, which includes a secure smartphone app and online portal to review and analyze your water usage patterns. Sign up today at EyeOnWater