The Town is continuing to respond to reports of discolored water in some parts of Andover. These conditions occur each summer and are as result of the increase demand flowing through certain older water mains which are the pipes that move the water from the treatment plant to your home or business. These water mains that cause the discolored water are the Town’s oldest, unlined cast iron mains. Since 2016, the Town has invested approximately $9 million for the purposes of replacing these mains. Over the next five years the Town will invest approximately $29 million to replace these water mains and approximately $50 million over the next ten years. This work will incrementally improve the conditions that cause discolored water each year. Additionally, the Town has modified its treatment procedures and expanded its flushing program which also improve conditions.
The Town is sensitive to the inconvenience discolored water causes and is here to help. The Town has a comprehensive, multi-year plan that will take time to fully implement. We are evaluating new technologies that can improve conditions in the interim and will continue to map and respond to reports of discolored water. Your input is valuable as we work to isolate the highest concentrations of reports and make the strategic investments to make both short and long term improvements for these areas of Town. For additional information please click here. We will continue to provide information that is helpful and encourage you to call the Water Division from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at (978) 623-8860 or by email at dpw-watersewer@andoverma.gov. Residents can also report discolored water at https://andoverma.gov/607/Public-Works-Request