Sterling to undergo water main flushing

BY SVN STAFF STERLING - Illinois American Water will be flushing water mains to clean out mineral deposits and sediment now through Oct. 27, as part of its annual maintenance work. The flushing will occur during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, starting at the western end of Sterling and moving east. "The flushing program is designed not only to maintain a high quality of water in the Sterling distribution system, but to inspect and operate fire hydrants to assure they are in good working order as well," Kevin Whitehouse, operations superintendent of the Sterling district, said in a news release Wednesday. No interruptions in water service will occur, although when crews are flushing nearby, customers may see a drop in water pressure. The company does not foresee incidences of discoloration, but if this should occur, customers should let their cold water run until it's clear before using it again, and refrain from doing laundry during that time, the release said. If problems persist, call Illinois American Water's 24-hour customer service line at (800) 422-2782.