Bethlehem continues flushing water mains to resolve musty odor

BETHLEHEM, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The town of Bethlehem will continue flushing some of its water mains throughout this week, the town announced on Friday. The efforts come as officials work to address an earthy smell and taste that has lingered in the town’s water since October.

Through Saturday, the water department will be working on extended flushing of the town’s main corridors: Fisher Blvd., Delaware Ave., Cherry Ave., Fairlawn Dr. and Evelyn Dr. Officials will also continue to flush specific problem areas that were reported on the town’s website. Each hydrant can take up to three hours to flush. 

Town officials recommend residents in these areas to flush their home’s plumbing once their nearby water main has been flushed. To do this, run cold water from a faucet in your residence for around 15 minutes. This will bring in fresh water from the newly flushed water main in the street.

If the musty smell in the water goes away, flush hot water from the faucet. Officials note that a chlorine odor, which disinfects the water and is required by law, is different from a musty smell and has more of a chemical scent. 

If the musty smell continues after flushing, submit a notification on the town website. The water department will schedule another flush of the area.

Last week, from Jan. 12 through Jan. 18, the town flushed regional systems in the Glenmont area, including the Jefferson and Manor neighborhoods, the Windham Hill, Oberlin and Bryn Mawr neighborhoods and more. Specific problem areas submitted by residents were also flushed. 

The town began a flushing schedule in early December after receiving widespread reports that the town’s water had an unpleasantly earthy smell and taste. According to the Bethlehem Public Works commissioner, Paul Penman, the odor originated from algae treatment in the local reservoir, as well as other environmental factors like droughts and sudden temperature changes.

The Albany County Department of Health has assured residents that the water is safe to drink despite its smell and taste. Penman warns against boiling the water, as heat brings out the smell. 

Any residents who have questions or notice either an increase in the musty smell or an improvement are asked to contact the town using their water quality concerns form. You may also visit the town’s water quality webpage for additional documentation on the issue.