Spring Hydrant Flushing Begins April 23

As part of a program that began in 1993 to assure the highest quality drinking water, the City of Grand Junction Water Services Division will begin spring hydrant flushing on Monday, April 23. The complete process will take approximately three weeks.
There are 970 fire hydrants and 150 miles of pipe in the City of Grand Junction’s service area. This program will flush 50% of those fire hydrants. Ron Key, Water Distribution Supervisor states, “The total amount of water used in the flushing program equates to about one half of an average day’s consumption during the month of May.”
Other than maintaining water quality, reasons for flushing the water system include:
- Increased chlorine residuals to the extremities of the water system
- Eliminate taste and odors
- Remove discolored water
- Maintain the life of the water mains
- Check fire flows and exercise fire hydrants
Some of the noticeable effects of flushing may be discolored water, low water pressure and noticeable water in the streets and gutters. These conditions should only be for short periods of time. If discolored water is noticed coming from your faucet the water should be allowed to run for several minutes to clear the service line.
During this process, the Water Division will make every effort to cause the least amount of disruption to water service possible. This program is just one way the Division seeks to provide a high level of customer service while continuing to provide water of the highest quality.
If you have any questions regarding the flushing program, please call Ron Key, Water Distribution Supervisor, at 970-244-1572.
Contact: Sam Rainguet, Communications Manager 970-260-5431 or samr@gjcity.org