On Wednesday, September 29, 2021 the Gloucester Department of Public Works (DPW) will begin the annual fall distribution system disinfectant switch from monochloramine to chlorine. On Thursday, September 30th 2021, the DPW will begin a city wide water distribution system flushing to establish chlorine throughout the distribution system. After two to five weeks following the disinfectant switch the DPW will switch back to monochloramine from chlorine and the DPW will then flush throughout the distribution system to restore monochloramine.
The annual distribution system fall disinfectant switch and spring unidirectional flushing has greatly helped the DPW with the maintenance of water quality in the distribution system. These practices combined with water treatment plant upgrades have also significantly reduced customer colored water complaints too.
During the switch to chlorine in the distribution system, a chlorine odor may be noticeable, which will not be noticeable when we return to monochloramine. If discolored water is experienced, running of cold water is recommended as flushing can disturb normal flow patterns. If water quality problems persist please contact the DPW at (978) 325-5680, so spot flushing can be performed.
