News Spotlight
Review the current community spotlight topic below and remain informed with featured details and research information on community-prioritized questions, infrastructure updates, and share your topic suggestions.
Explore our featured community topic and submit your own ideas for future discussions.
SGWASA's Unidirectional Flushing Pilot Program
SGWASA is launching a pilot Unidirectional Flushing (UDF) program in the Golden Pond subdivision to develop a repeatable, step-by-step flushing approach that can later be expanded across the service area. The pilot is designed to strengthen operational practices, improve targeted water-quality maintenance, and inform future systemwide flushing efforts.
As part of this pilot, SGWASA and Hazen & Sawyer will update system information used for planning (including pipe, valve, and hydrant information), build a UDF plan for the subdivision, and support the early execution approach through structured deliverables and field support.
The targeted maintenance program to keep water moving, keep pipes cleaner, and support consistent water quality. Flushing is one of the ways SGWASA maintains water quality in the distribution system by removing loose material, reducing stagnation, and helping control conditions that can contribute to water quality complaints.
Unidirectional flushing is a targeted method that moves water in one controlled direction through isolated sections of pipe at higher velocity to carry sediment and accumulated material out of the main.
Crews close specific valves to force flow one way, then flush from selected points, such as hydrants, to remove material that can collect inside water mains over time.
This aligns with widely used industry practice: flushing helps remove stagnant water and loose deposits and can scour pipe surfaces as a proactive maintenance activity.
Because UDF requires coordinated valve operations and targeted flushing, customers in the pilot area may notice utility crews accessing valves and hydrants throughout the neighborhood. In older infrastructure, higher-velocity flushing can expose weak points; SGWASA discussed using the pilot to better understand valve condition and the realities of repairs needed during execution.
Our teams are working with a contracted engineering firm to develop a comprehensive and structured flushing program.
Increased Testing
SGWASA is currently expanding water testing across our entire service area to determine if this is an isolated issue or system-wide.
System Flushing
Crews conducted hydrant flushing processes in affected areas to help remove any buildup and restore clarity.
Water Quality Consultation
We are working with a certified water quality consultant to trace the cause and develop both short-term corrective actions and long-term preventive strategies.
Infrastructure Improvements
Engineering teams are updating SGWASA's system model, training staff in hydrant flushing techniques, and preparing for long-term infrastructure investments
What We Are Doing:
Community Pages:
Communication
If you have any questions pertaining to this project and your property or if you would like specific information regarding your account, please contact the SGWASA customer service team at customerservice@sgwasa.org or 919-575-3367.
