Fall Hydrant Flushing Begins Sept. 17

From the City of St. Charles: Starting September 17, the St. Charles Public Works Water Division will perform hydrant flushing as a part of the regular maintenance to the City’s water distribution system. Flushing may start as early as 5 a.m. and continue through 4 p.m.

“Flushing hydrants improves water quality. As the water flows through the water mains, it flushes out mineral build-up,” said Tim Wilson, Environmental Services Manager. “Hydrant flushing also ensures that hydrants are ready for emergency use.”

St. Charles is divided into quadrants for hydrant flushing: Northwest, Southwest, Southeast, and Northeast. Main Street (Illinois Route 64) divides the north and south quadrants, and the Fox River divides the east and west quadrants.

Fall 2018 Hydrant Flushing Schedule

Schedule dates are weather-permitting. Signs announcing hydrant flushing will be posted scheduled areas.

· Northwest: Sept. 17 - 21

· Southwest: Sept. 24 - 28

· Southeast: Oct. 1 - 5

· Northeast (West of Dunham Road): Oct. 8 - 12

· Northeast (East of Dunham Road): Oct. 15 - 19

Hydrant Flushing can cause Water Discoloration

Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however, residents may temporarily experience rusty-colored water. Some tips:

· Limit water use, if possible.

· If water is discolored, wait until flushing is complete then run the cold water tap in your bathtub or utility sink until it runs clear.

· Remember that rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.

The City offers a stain remover at no cost to residents at:

· Public Works, 1405 South 7th Avenue

· City Hall, Reception Desk, 2 East Main Street

For more information, contact the Public Works Department at 630.377.4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov.

About the City of St. Charles

The City of St. Charles, Illinois, is guided by the four driving principles in its Mission: Heritage. Community. Service. Opportunity. Together, these principles create a thriving environment for people who live or visit here, and for businesses to prosper. Our City has gained national recognition as a family-friendly town and wide acclaim for its architecture, living up to its nickname Pride of the Fox. Conveniently located 35 miles west of Chicago, predominantly in Kane County, St. Charles is home to 33,000 residents and a balanced mix of 2,100 businesses that employ more than 18,000 people. More atwww.stcharlesil.gov, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Vimeo and LinkedIn.

Photo courtesy of the City of St. Charles