SGWASA Engineering Project

Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) Pilot Program

This program is intended to support a more structured and proactive approach to system flushing. The work will help SGWASA evaluate operational methods for improving water quality maintenance, managing sediment and residual conditions, and strengthening long-term distribution system practices.

Routine valve and fire hydrant maintenance was completed in June. Water main flushing was postponed due to high temperatures and localized drought conditions.

Budget:

$45,000

Current Milestone:

SGWASA

SGWASA's Board of Directors recently approved the unidirectional flushing pilot task order for Hazen &
Sawyer, totaling $45,000.00.

The Unidirectional Hydrant Flushing Pilot was on a temporary hold after June valve and hydrant exercising. Hot weather and localized drought conditions postponed scheduled flushing.

A pilot program was designed to enhance water quality and reliability by reducing stagnation and removing material that can contribute to discoloration complaints and other water-quality concerns. This program will support compliance and operational performance by formalizing a strategic maintenance approach that can be repeated and expanded system-wide.

Funding:

Hazen & Sawyer

As part of SGWASA’s ongoing water quality improvement initiatives, the Authority partnered with Hazen & Sawyer to develop a Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) Pilot Program in the Golden Pond subdivision of Creedmoor, encompassing approximately 5.3 miles of water distribution mains. The $45,000 program was designed to improve water quality through systematic flushing, sediment removal, and proactive distribution system maintenance.

Following valve and hydrant maintenance in June 2026, flushing activities were temporarily postponed due to elevated temperatures and localized drought conditions. Improved water supply conditions allowed the program to resume in September.

SGWASA successfully completed the two-day UDF pilot beginning September 22, 2026, establishing a foundation for a more structured, systemwide approach to water quality maintenance and operational efficiency.

Hazen & Sawyer is scheduled to present the pilot summary to SGWASA’s Board of Directors on November 10, 2026. SGWASA will subsequently evaluate the scope and cost of expanding the program into additional areas of Creedmoor, Stem, and Butner during FY 2027–2028.

Learn More

This section provides supporting documents and media related to the project. The resources below consolidate key information on the project and closely connected topics that inform planning, compliance, and coordination.

Unlike routine flushing, which generally supports day-to-day water freshness, UDF is a controlled, high-velocity flushing method that isolates pipe segments through deliberate valve operations to scour mains. This process is also beneficial in removing accumulated material, like sediment and corrosion byproducts, supporting long-term asset stewardship.