Water Main and Hydrant flushing to begin October 25th in Lincoln

[November 14, 2017]   LINCOLN - Illinois American Water is beginning its annual maintenance program, which includes testing and flushing fire hydrants. This work helps to ensure continued water quality and fire protection to homes and businesses. Work will occur across the system Oct. 25 – Nov. 15, 2017.

Illinois American Water conducts an annual flushing program of its water distribution system to help ensure continued high-quality water service. Flushing the water system entails sending a rapid flow of water through the water mains. Fire hydrants are also checked and operated to help ensure fire protection in the community

“The flushing program is designed not only to maintain a high quality of water in the Lincoln distribution system, but to inspect and operate fire hydrants to assure they are in good working order as well,” said Gabe Bowden, operations superintendent for the Lincoln District.

No interruptions in water service will occur as a result of the work. Illinois American Water advises that when crews are flushing nearby, customers may experience a temporary drop in water pressure or draw some discolored water for a short period of time. If this does occur, it is recommended that customers let their cold water run to clear before using it again and refrain from doing laundry during that time.

Customers are being notified of this work via media outreach, customer calls and information on Illinois American Water's website at www.illinoisamwater.com. 

Information is also provided to customer service center representatives. For additional information, customers can visit or contact Illinois American Water’s customer service center at 1-800- 422-2782.

About Illinois American Water
Illinois American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 1.3 million people. American Water also operates a customer service center in Alton and a quality control and research laboratory in Belleville.

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly-traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,700 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in 47 states and Ontario, Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

[Karen Cotton
Illinois American Water
External Affairs, Manager]