Water Main Projects
New water main is installed on various streets throughout the city to improve distribution and fire flow, and to replace older piping. The city has completed a Water System Reliability Study and General Plan as required by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, and uses this plan to schedule water main improvements throughout the city.
Project work typically includes excavation, water main installation, service connections to the new main, and replacement of sidewalk, drive approaches and road pavement as needed. Construction notices are mailed to property owners adjacent to projects prior to construction.
Project work typically includes excavation, water main installation, service connections to the new main, and replacement of sidewalk, drive approaches and road pavement as needed. Construction notices are mailed to property owners adjacent to projects prior to construction.
During Construction
During construction, there may be limited street access to properties and driveways to allow for construction equipment, excavation work and paving work. “No Parking - Tow Away Zone 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.” signs will be posted 12 hours in advance where required to allow for various construction operations.
Water main projects require temporary water shutoffs to adjacent homes and businesses, generally 4 to 8 hours in length. Affected residents are notified 24 hours in advance of shutoffs, with the exception of emergency shutoffs.
Garbage is picked up as usual during construction unless otherwise notified. Garbage pickup on construction projects is often picked up at 7:00 a.m. to avoid interfering with construction operations for the day.
Disturbed lawn areas damaged by the contractor’s operations will be replaced with topsoil and sod. Depending on the summer weather conditions, restoration of the lawn areas disturbed by the construction may not begin until after Labor Day. The city does not replace special landscaping, brick, timbers, plantings or shrubs placed on city’s property or within the public utility easements.
Cloudy Water
Water can appear cloudy and/or rusty whenever there is a large draw of water from the water main, which is relatively common near water main projects. This can occur when water valves are opened and closed, when there are water main breaks, and when hydrants are flushed or used by the Fire Department.
Naturally occurring mineral deposits that accumulate within the water main get stirred up and become suspended particles, thus producing the discoloration in the water. Discolored water is temporary, and while unappealing, it is not harmful.
What to do?
Residents should run the cold water faucet closest to the meter (usually located in the basement or outside hose bib) for several minutes until the water runs clear. If the water does not clear after 20 minutes of flushing, contact the Department of Public Service at 248.246.3300. Residents should avoid running hot water or washing clothes while water is discolored.
Construction Notices
Click here to view copies of the construction notices that were mailed to property owners abutting the various construction projects.