The Niagara County Water District has announced that, on Tuesday, April 17, it will conduct a scheduled drinking water transmission shutdown maintenance operation in northern parts of Niagara County. The maintenance is expected to affect the towns of Royalton, Ridgeway, Somerset, Hartland, Lockport, Newfane and Shelby, as well as the villages of Barker, Middleport and Medina.
This maintenance may affect water pressure in the above municipalities. In addition, once water pressure is restored, the water may appear cloudy or milky due to air entrapment.
A press release stated, "The water main maintenance will be completed as quickly as possible. Once water pressure has been fully restored, and if your water appears milky, we request you flush all of your water taps within your residence, for a minimum of five minutes or until the water runs clear. It is recommended that you run your bathtub faucet initially, since it draws a large amount of water and is typically not screened. Start at the upstairs bathroom if available and work your way down to the lowest faucet in your home."
The Water District stressed to affected residents, "Rest assured the water is safe to drink. Cloudy or milky water is caused by air bubbles in the water. It is completely harmless. Pour the water in a glass and after a few minutes it will clear up. Like any bubble, the air rises to the top of the water and goes into the air above, clearing up the water."
The Niagara County Water District and the affected municipalities have been in close contact with the Niagara County Department of Health to ensure the water supply is safe and meets water quality standards.
Those who have additional questions or concerns regarding their water supply are asked to call Ronald Gwozdek. P.E., principal engineer, at 716-439-7452.
