Bloomfield ‘Valve Exercise’ May Cause Brief Loss Of Service: Officials

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Bloomfield officials say that they don’t expect a “valve exercising program” on Thursday to impact individual water service, but that a brief loss of service or cloudy water could result.

On Wednesday, Bloomfield municipal officials released an advisory about the valve exercising program, stating that its purpose is to “operate the thousands of valves within the water system to verify that they are working and operational” and replace them if needed.

The announcement read:

“Valves that work properly are critical to a well-maintained distribution system. In the event of water main breaks or replacement of watermain pipe, having water system valves that operate properly are critical in achieving proper shut-down while maintaining adequate water pressure and quality within the system. This is especially important during emergency watermain breaks.

“The Bloomfield Water Department has retained the services of a water system contractor, John Garcia Construction who will go to each valve, one at a time, and operate it by opening and closing it. This work will begin in the southernmost part of the township. (South of Bloomfield Avenue). It is anticipated that this work should not impact your individual water service. However, brief loss of service and the potential for a short period of cloudy water cannot be ruled out. If you experience these conditions, please contact the Bloomfield Engineering Department. Instances of cloudy or brown water can normally be remedied by running the water from your taps until it clears.”

Residents with questions about the program can contact the Bloomfield Engineering Department at 973-680-4130, or via e-mail at plasek@bloomfieldtwpnj.com.

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