Newton Community Letter 2022

WHAT NEWTON IS DOING TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY:

In addition to the actions taken by MWRA outlined in this report, the Newton Department of Public Works has taken steps to improve the quality of drinking water provided to Newton residents. The city completed a Capital Efficiency Plan in 2021, using a Risk-Based Asset Ranking, resulting in an ongoing program of pipeline replacement, cleaning and lining of water mains, replacement of hydrants, elimination of dead-end water mains, and water main flushing. Typical of older distribution systems, Newton’s water pipes develop a layer of sediment and encrusted material known as tuberculation. This can affect taste, odor and color. During rehabilitation, interior walls of pipes are restored, eliminating the tuberculation upon which bacteria can grow.

WATER MAIN REHABILITATION & REPLACEMENT:

Water main replacement is performed where the main is undersized or has corroded to such an extent that it is not structurally sound. Newton is spending approximately $4.5 million per year for at least the next 10 years to rehabilitate the water infrastructure, in conjunction with the MWRA. To keep construction costs at a minimum, water main rehabilitation is targeted on roads scheduled for resurfacing. The 2022 construction season included installation of 2,200 feet of new 20 inch water main on Ward Street between Manet Road and Waverley Avenue. The Department of Public Works has implemented an ongoing, comprehensive, unidirectional flushing program designed to remove tuberculation and sediments from water mains. The program involves closing water gates and forcing water flow at high velocities, which scours the water mains and improves water quality..

TOTAL COLIFORM TESTS:

Newton collects 23 water samples each week, throughout the city, to monitor water quality by testing for total coliform bacteria in the distribution system. MassDEP and EPA require that no more than 5% of the samples in a month test positive for total coliform. In September, we exceeded the 5% threshold when coliform bacteria were detected in seven samples. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present, or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. We found coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs we are required to conduct an assessment to identify any problems and to correct any problems that were found. We were required to conduct and completed a Level 1 Assessment to identify potential problems, and to determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found. We were required to take one corrective action, and one corrective action was completed. It was determined that additional flushing and testing was needed to ensure required disinfectant levels in the system. We conducted the required flushing to address chlorine levels in the pipes and testing to ensure the treatment was effective.

LEAK DETECTION and BACKFLOW PREVENTION:

The City performs semi-annual water leak detection survey on 319 miles of water main where correlation technology is used to find. In 2022, 177 leaks were documented and repaired by the Utilities Division. Newton has a Cross Connection Control and Prevention Program to protect the water distribution system from contamination. The Certified Backflow Inspectors/Testers surveyed 65 facilities, performed 2,373 tests on backflow devices, and review and approve new devices prior to installation. The City operates under the MassDEP regulation 310 CMR 22.22.

LEAD AND COPPER SAMPLING:

The MassDEP Lead and Copper Rule requires the city to test for lead and copper annually. Results from the 2022 testing are shown below. Newton’s results were below the Action Level for both lead and copper. One sample exceeded the lead Action Level and corrective action was taken at the location. Additional information on lead can be found at www.newtonma.gov, including information on home testing.

For information on public meetings go to the Department of Public Works Utilities Division web site at www.newtonma.gov or call 617-796-1640 Monday through Friday between 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.

James McGonagle, Commissioner of Public Works