March 6, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information contact: Water Division, 269-966-3506
Rusty water concerns
BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Water Distribution crews are currently flushing fire hydrants in the northeast portion of the City to relieve the system of rusty water due to two incidents occurring today.
The City has experienced a significant change in water velocity and water routing at the Verona Pumping Station. Work being done at the treatment plant and unrelated work being done on the water distribution system has created considerable rusty water for some residents. These two incidents are in preparation for projects planned for later this spring and summer.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will be resurfacing a portion of Capital Ave. NE where Water Distribution crews have been working on trial shutdowns in this area preparing for valve replacements that will take place prior to the MDOT work.
The second project is taking place at the Verona Water Treatment Plant where inoperable large diameter valves have been identified; and are planned to be replaced later this spring. In addition to the work involved with the large diameter valves and water main, a newly rebuilt high-service pump was being reinstalled and tested at approximately the same time.
The combination of these actions has led to a reversal of the normal water flow leaving the Verona Water Treatment plant.
Customers are encouraged to do a cold water flush later today to clear discolored water from water services and internal plumbing. This is best done by running cold water in the bathtub first. Once water runs clear at the bathtub, the remaining faucets in the home can be flushed.
We apologize for the inconvenience caused by our actions to improve our water system. Further information will be shared as work continues at both the Verona Water Treatment plant and the Capital Avenue NE corridor.
We appreciate everyone’s patience during this and all work.