Water main flushing and fire hydrant testing will begin Tuesday, September 3. Flushing the water mains helps assure clean, fresh water in the city, and fire hydrant testing verifies the devices are in working order in the event they are needed during a fire.
The work will be done by City of East Peoria crews and last through the end of September. Flushing will occur between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Residents should watch for any discoloration or sediment in their water. Although the process could result in rusty-colored water, the water is safe to consume, and the color usually clears up in several hours. Residents who see a crew flushing a hydrant should avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or dishwasher until the flushing is done. Caution should be used when doing light-colored laundry. If clothes do become rust-stained, rust stain remover is available at the East Peoria Department of Public Works office, 2232 East Washington Street, between 7 a.m. and noon and 1 until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
There is no set schedule as to when flushing will occur in neighborhoods since crews could be redirected to other duties. Residents should watch for city crews in their neighborhoods to know when the inspections are occurring. Motorists should drive carefully and treat the workers like any other road construction crew.
Business and private hydrants will also be flushed by the East Peoria Fire Department, with a signed waiver from the business. This will occur once all public hydrants have been flushed.
For more information, call Public Works at 309-698-4716.