Campus-wide Fire Hydrant Flushing Underway

Facilities and Campus Services is currently performing an annual flushing of campus fire hydrants.

The hydrant flushing, which began July 8 and will continue for approximately five weeks, will be performed weekdays from 4-7 a.m. and 3-9 p.m., and on Saturdays from 4-7 a.m. Hydrants on the perimeter of the campus will be flushed during the morning, and those at the center of campus will be flushed during the late afternoon/early evening.

The flushing program, which is performed at the recommendation of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, is an important preventative maintenance activity that helps ensure the integrity of the potable water system and the delivery of quality water to the campus population. Flushing the hydrants removes sediment from pipes, ensures that the hydrants and valves are operating as intended and helps to identify closed valves and weak flows.

Facilities Management will notify residential areas, including university family housing, two days prior to flushing. Water customers may temporarily experience low water pressure or discolored water while this work is being done. If discoloration occurs, let the water run for a few moments until it clears.