The City of Brockville’s Water Systems Division is launching its annual watermain flushing program on April 1, 2026, to help maintain the quality of the local water supply. This routine maintenance will continue through September 2026, with crews working on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.
The program involves flushing water through the city’s 125 kilometres of piping at high velocity to clear out sediment and mineral deposits. According to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, regular flushing is a recommended practice to ensure long-term water system reliability. Brockville draws its water from the St. Lawrence River, which is then filtered, chlorinated, and fluoridated by the city before it reaches homes and businesses.
Work is beginning in two specific areas: Zone A, which covers Brockville West from Rivers Avenue to Elizabethtown-Kitley to Happy Green Acres, and Zone B, which includes the California and Parkedale Avenue areas. As the project moves across the city, residents may notice temporary water discoloration, such as cloudy or rusty-looking water, or minor fluctuations in water pressure.
Officials note that while these effects may be noticeable, they are strictly an aesthetic issue and do not pose any health risks. If residents experience discolored water, the city advises running a cold water tap until the water runs clear. It is also recommended to avoid using hot water during these times to prevent sediment from entering home water heaters.
This initiative is overseen by the City of Brockville Engineering and Infrastructure department. The work complements broader infrastructure improvements in the city, following a recent provincial funding announcement of $24.6 million for the replacement of the Centeen Park Main Sewage Pumping Station.
