Semi-annual water system flushing begins Oct. 21

Attention West Point Community! Mark your calendars: the semi-annual flushing of the water system starts on ??????, ???. ??. Please see the attached schedule and Frequently Asked Question’s below for more details.

As a result of hydrant flushing, residents in the immediate vicinity may experience temporary discoloration of their water. This discoloration is harmless, and generally consists of precipitates which do not affect the safety of water consumption. If you notice that your water is discolored, you can clear this issue by running all water faucets inside your home for approximately 15 minutes, or until the water clears. If the water does not clear, please contact American Water at 845-667-0250.

*Note: It is important you do not wash laundry or use household bleach while the water is cloudy or discolored. Please wait until the water is clear before doing your laundry. 

Flushing/Flow Testing schedule locations with dates and times:

• Mon., Oct. 21 -- Central Area, Building 667 area, Thayer Hotel, South Post, etc., between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (First level water district).
• Tues., Oct. 22 -- Lusk Area Housing, Michie Stadium area, Eichelberger Road, etc., between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Third level water district).
• Wed., Oct. 23 -- Grant Housing area (formerly known as Lee), West Point Schools, Old Post Exchange (Subway/FMWR Fitness Center), etc., between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Second level water district).
• Mon., Oct. 28 -- USMAPS, New Brick Housing, Grey Ghost Housing, Keller Army Community Hospital, Laundry, etc., between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Fourth water level).
• Tues., Oct. 29 -- Stony Lonesome Housing, Commissary, Post Exchange, etc., between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Fifth level water district).
• Mon., Nov. 4 -- Make up day for any reason the flushing schedule falls behind. Between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Fourth level water district).
• Tues., Nov. 5 -- Make up day for any reason the flushing schedule falls behind. Between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Fifth level water district).

** Actual time durations are approximated and may change based on environmental conditions.

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Q: Why is my water pressure low?

A: Your water pressure may be low due to the flushing of fire hydrants, which lowers the water pressure in the area that is being tested. This issue will be rectified once flushing is completed.

Q: Why is my water discolored?

A: Water discoloration or turbid water is caused by the stirring of sedimentation in the water main when hydrants are flushed.

Q: What should I do about the discolored water?

A: Run all faucets within your home for approximately 15 minutes or until water clears.

Q: If water is discolored, is it safe for consumption?

A: Yes. The discoloration is caused by harmless mineral deposits, which settle in the water main and are stirred during the flushing activity. The water is harmless due to the amount of chlorine that is flushed through the lines.

Q: Is it OK to wash laundry when water is discolored?

A: No. Please run all water inside the home for approximately 15 minutes or until water clears. You should check water clarity by capturing a sample from the washing machine in a clear glass or container. If water is cloudy or discolored, please do not wash laundry.

Q: Who should I contact if water does not clear after recommended precautions or for more information?

A: Call American Water at 845-667-0250.