Full Notification

Media Advisory

Temporary discolored water is safe (Updated July 16, 2018)

Dearborn, MI – Residents and businesses in the area of Oakwood to Outer Drive and Southfield to Michigan Avenue may experience temporary discolored water due to a large-scale construction project.

Eric Witte, Deputy Director of Public Works, said city crews will address the issue in the construction area today. The discolored water will only be temporary and is not expected to affect as many homes as the construction changes did last week.

No health hazards are being caused by temporary discolored water residents may see from their faucets in their homes in southwest Dearborn. The water is safe, but aesthetically unappealing. There is no lead in the discolored water. 

Witte said residents are advised to flush their home’s water system by turning on the faucet in the lowest level of their house for 20-30 minutes. If the water does not clear after 30 minutes, they should call Water Department at 313- 943-2307 (until 4:30 p.m.). After 4:30 p.m., the number to call is 943-2100. 

The City of Dearborn is flushing fire hydrants to address the situation, which is related to the construction project on Oakwood Boulevard.

The discoloration is caused by sediments that have been disturbed through the planned rerouting of the water flow as part of the construction project. The discoloration is due to iron and calcium deposits in water pipes that are being dislodged because of a change in direction of the water flow in the pipes.

Because clothes and linens could become discolored, residents are advised not to do laundry until the water in their house runs clear. Laundry products such as “Iron Out” can address materials already affected by discolored water.

Instructions:

See email