Water Company Lifts Outdoor Water Use Restrictions

New Jersey American Water has lifted all restrictions on water use for its customers in the townships of Millburn, including Short Hills, Maplewood, West Orange, Irvington, Springfield and the City of Summit.

Residents had been required to conserve water since August 31 when flood waters from Hurricane Irene disabled the company’s Canoe Brook Water Treatment Plant in Short Hills. The plant lost power and more than 47,000 New Jersey American Water customers were either without water or experienced low water pressure. In addition, those with water were on a boil alert.

While the company worked to restore power and stability to the plant and the water distribution system, customers were required to curtail using water outdoors.

“The impact of Hurricane Irene presented significant challenges for our customers and for our water operations,” Steve Tambini, vice president of operations for New Jersey American Water, said in a release from the company on Friday.

“From losing water pressure, to having to boil water before consumption, to being required to suspend outdoor water use, our customers have been very patient and understanding," he said. "New Jersey American Water thanks them all for their cooperation and we remain committed to providing with reliable, high-quality water service.”

The current 1920s-era water treatment plant is scheduled to be replaced with a new facility, complete with added flood protection, by mid-2012, company officials said Friday.