Water Main Flushing

To improve and maintain long-term water quality and to minimize discoloration, routine flushing of the City of East Lansing's water main distribution system will begin on April 24, 2023. The flushing will occur between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, for approximately three weeks.

The spring 2023 program will take place in the area west of Abbot Road and north of Wolf Court, Gainsborough Drive and Bessemaur Drive within East Lansing’s City limits. Residents can track the progress of the spring 2023 water main flushing by viewing this GIS map.

Remaining sections of the City will be included in future flushing activities. 

Why Water Main Flushing is Important

Although the water within the City's distribution system is of very high quality, the aesthetic quality can deteriorate over time if the mains are not properly managed. The flushing process removes sediment and mineral deposits which naturally begin to build up in the mains over time. The removal is accomplished by “scouring” the mains by running water through them at high velocity and discharging it through fire hydrants. 

What Residents Should Know

As a result of the water main flushing, residents may experience a reduction in water pressure when the crew is flushing the main immediately adjacent to their home or business. The pressure will return to normal once the flushing in the immediate area is completed.  

While the vast majority of mineral deposits are discharged through the fire hydrants during the flushing process, small amounts can remain within the system once the work is completed. As a result, residents within or adjacent to the project area, may also experience cloudy or rusty-colored water when they first turn on their faucet. Although the discolored water is safe and does not pose a health concern, residents are strongly encouraged to check their water prior to doing laundry or other projects in which discolored water could be a problem. Residents who experience discolored water are advised to run cold water through a non-aerated faucet, such as a bathtub or exterior water spigot, for five to 10 minutes until the water becomes clear.  Residents are also advised to avoid using hot water before checking the cold water to prevent discolored water from entering their hot water heater.

Track the Flushing Progress

Residents can track the progress of the 2023 Water Main Flushing program via this GIS Map. Find out where the flushing has been completed, is currently taking place and has yet to be completed.

Contact Information

The City appreciates residents' cooperation and patience while this important work is performed.  Residents can contact the East Lansing Department of Public Works at (517) 337-9459 with questions or for additional information.