Belleville Water Update: Pressure Will Stabilize Soon, Officials Say

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Water pressure has continued to be an issue for some Belleville residents in the wake of this month’s huge main break. But there’s some good news on the horizon – and it may come Wednesday, officials say.

The water main break took place on Aug. 9 near Branch Brook Park at the border of Belleville and Newark, and also affected Bloomfield. It caused boil water advisories in each municipality, although nearby Nutley didn’t issue one.

• See related article: Videos Show Power, Damage Of Water Main Break In Belleville

Each town – including Belleville – has since lifted their boil water advisories. Read More: Belleville Water Safe To Drink Without Boiling, Officials Say (Update)

While the water is safe to drink, some residents have reported on social media that they are still seeing lingering issues with the pressure in their homes.

Belleville Mayor Michael Melham has provided updates about the ongoing repair process via social media, including the arrival of a “huge” replacement part.

“Hoping for some good news today,” Melham wrote on Aug. 20. “Once Newark Water’s repair is complete, the system will need to be flushed and tested. After that, water and pressure will return. In the meantime, Belleville continues to divert to provide water and pressure to our residents. Those with low pressure will be fine once the repair is complete.”

Pressurization of water mains throughout Belleville began Tuesday afternoon, town officials said.

“If no water leaks are detected water pressure should be back to normal by the end of the day Wednesday,” officials continued. “A bacteria test will be performed in the next few days which will complete this project. All water is currently safe to drink, as the township is still diverted. Once bacteria tests come back clean, Belleville will once again be back on Newark water and pressure will stabilize. Again, we sincerely thank you all for your patience during this trying time.”

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