City Of Richland To Conduct Fire Hydrant Testing June 2–3 As Part Of Water System Plan Update
- 06/01/26
Don't be alarmed if you see water flowing from fire hydrants across Richland on June 2–3. It's part of planned testing to help update the City's Water System Plan.
You may notice City water crews and engineering consultants working throughout Richland on June 2 and 3 as part of the City's ongoing Water System Plan update.
The City is partnering with RH2 Engineering to conduct fire hydrant flushing and hydraulic monitoring at more than 30 locations across the community between 6:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. both days.
During testing, crews will flush two fire hydrants at a time using a specialized device called a "hose monster," which measures water flow and system performance. Residents may see large volumes of water being discharged from hydrants during the testing process. While it may appear unusual, this is expected and is an important part of evaluating the City's water distribution system. Most testing at each location will last five minutes or less.
To protect the environment, dechlorination screens will be used to remove chlorine from the water before it enters the stormwater system.
Some residents may notice temporary fluctuations in water pressure while testing is underway. In some areas, the testing may also cause temporary water discoloration as naturally occurring mineral sediment within water mains becomes disturbed. The water remains safe to use and drink; however, customers who experience discoloration are encouraged to first run the cold water in their bathtub until the water clears. Once clear, run cold water faucets as needed. This process helps flush sediment from the service line and reduces the chance of debris collecting in faucet aerators. If debris does become trapped in an aerator screen, removing and rinsing the aerator may help restore normal water flow.
City staff and RH2 Engineering representatives will be on site throughout the process to monitor conditions and minimize impacts.
This work helps engineers better understand how water moves through our system and ensures Richland can continue providing reliable water service and fire protection as our community grows.
Thank you for your patience as we complete this important work.
City Of Richland To Conduct Fire Hydrant Testing June 2–3 As Part Of Water System Plan Update
- 06/01/26
Don't be alarmed if you see water flowing from fire hydrants across Richland on June 2–3. It's part of planned testing to help update the City's Water System Plan.
You may notice City water crews and engineering consultants working throughout Richland on June 2 and 3 as part of the City's ongoing Water System Plan update.
The City is partnering with RH2 Engineering to conduct fire hydrant flushing and hydraulic monitoring at more than 30 locations across the community between 6:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. both days.
During testing, crews will flush two fire hydrants at a time using a specialized device called a "hose monster," which measures water flow and system performance. Residents may see large volumes of water being discharged from hydrants during the testing process. While it may appear unusual, this is expected and is an important part of evaluating the City's water distribution system. Most testing at each location will last five minutes or less.
To protect the environment, dechlorination screens will be used to remove chlorine from the water before it enters the stormwater system.
Some residents may notice temporary fluctuations in water pressure while testing is underway. In some areas, the testing may also cause temporary water discoloration as naturally occurring mineral sediment within water mains becomes disturbed. The water remains safe to use and drink; however, customers who experience discoloration are encouraged to first run the cold water in their bathtub until the water clears. Once clear, run cold water faucets as needed. This process helps flush sediment from the service line and reduces the chance of debris collecting in faucet aerators. If debris does become trapped in an aerator screen, removing and rinsing the aerator may help restore normal water flow.
City staff and RH2 Engineering representatives will be on site throughout the process to monitor conditions and minimize impacts.
This work helps engineers better understand how water moves through our system and ensures Richland can continue providing reliable water service and fire protection as our community grows.
Thank you for your patience as we complete this important work.
