For Immediate Release

Date: Aug. 19, 2004
Contact  Jenny Hagan
(843) 727-7146

Water main repair may cause discolored water for some Charleston Water System customers

(August 19, 2004)—On Thursday, August 19 at 11:00 p.m., Charleston Water System crews will perform repair work on a 48-inch water main on Virginia Avenue between Empire Street and Lincoln Avenue, which may cause some customers to experience a temporary discoloration of tap water.

The 48-inch main is one of Charleston Water System's largest water mains, and connects to smaller water pipes to provide water to North Charleston, West Ashley, and the downtown Charleston areas. During the repair, which will take place between 11 p.m. Thursday and 6 a.m. Friday , Charleston Water System will isolate the section of pipe between Empire Street and Lincoln Avenue. This will not directly affect water supply to any customers; however, some customers may experience discolored water as a result of this repair.

This section of the main will be disinfected before it is returned to service, but when the pipe is isolated for repair, it is possible that mineral deposits that collect on the inside of the pipe over time may become mixed with the water and once pressure is restored, some customers could experience discolored water. The water is safe to drink, but customers who experience discolored water should let their cold-water faucets run until the water becomes clear.

To minimize the occurrence of discolored water, Charleston Water System crews will be flushing water mains in the affected areas during and after the repair. Flushing mains simply means that water will be released from fire hydrants to release any discolored water before it arrives at customers' taps.

Customers who have questions or who experience problems are encouraged to call Charleston Water System's 24-hour Customer Service line at 727-6800 or visit www.charlestonCharleston Water System.com for more information.

###