The City of Plymouth is set to begin annual water main flushing in mid-April, which was preceded by a round of citywide street sweeping.

City crews began sweeping streets in March ahead of the water main flushing schedule to help prevent excess pollutants, such as salt, sand, leaves and debris, from being flushed down the storm sewer catch basins and into Plymouth’s water bodies.

Annual water main flushing helps maintain high-quality water and removes natural mineral and sediment buildup that accumulates at the bottom of the water main. Sediment buildup is caused by internal corrosion of the water mains over many years.

Water Main Flushing Schedule

The city will flush water mains based on the schedule below.

• April 15-17: Industrial/residential areas on both sides of I-494, south of Highway 55
• April 17 to May 6: Residential areas west of I-494, except areas along both sides of Chankahda Trail west of I-494
• May 6-23: Residential areas east of I-494, and areas along both sides of Chankahda Trail west of I-494

Residents can find out when their specific area will be flushed at plymouthmn.gov/watermainflushing or by calling 763-509-5950.

Water may be discolored throughout this time, but it is more likely while the nearby area is flushed. Those who notice discolored water may opt to avoid doing laundry until the system is clear. Residents can run their outdoor water faucet until the water runs clear.

Street Sweeping Protects Water Quality

Street cleaning is completed three times per year to help protect Plymouth's lakes, creeks and wetlands.

Maintaining clean streets is a high priority for the City of Plymouth due to its commitment to surface water quality. On average, more than 1,200 tons of material – the equivalent of 2.4 million pounds – is cleaned off of city streets each year.