Southwest Cedar Rapids water notification for Nov. 28-30

The Cedar Rapids Water Division will be completing work November 28-30th that may impact the water in homes and businesses on the southwest side of Cedar Rapids.  This work will not begin until the Monday following Thanksgiving Day.

The Cedar Rapids Water Division needs to inspect the C Street water tower, which has been in continuous service since 1995.  The inspection will require that water employees open select valves that remain closed under normal operating conditions.  The opening of these valves may cause iron sediment, which has built up in the pipes over the years, to be stirred.  The iron sediment comes from older cast iron pipes.  The discoloration of water that may occur does not pose a health risk, but may impact some household activities during the work period.

Who is affected?Water customers on the southwest side of Cedar Rapids located south of Wilson Avenue and east of 6th street.

What to expectCustomers may see discolored water, especially at the beginning of the work period.  The discoloration is caused by iron sediment that has built up in the pipes over the years.  The increased iron does not pose a health risk.  The water is still safe to drink.

Customers may also experience some changes in water pressure.  These changes are temporary, the water pressure should return to normal at the end of the work period.  The Water Division will be taking steps to keep the pressure stable, but changes in the system pressure during the tank inspection may contribute to main breaks.  If customers notice water bubbling up under pavement or large amounts of water running in the street, they can call Water Customer Service (319) 286-5910 to report the issue.

What to doThe Cedar Rapids Water Division recommends that customers do not do the laundry or use the water for cleaning until it once again runs clear.  The increase in iron particles can cause stains on clothing and porous surfaces.

If customers notice any discoloration in their water between November 28th and 30th, we recommend that they let the faucet run for a few minutes until the water clears.

The water is safe to drink.

QuestionsWater Customer Service is available to answer questions about this issue Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) from 7:30-4:30 at 286-5900.  Customers may also email questions to

WaterMail@Cedar-Rapids.org.

Thank you for your understanding as we complete this needed maintenance activity.