Newton Community Letter 2023

CITY OF NEWTON
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
UTILITIES DIVISION

Thomas Fitzgerald, Utilities Director
60 Elliot Street, Newton, MA 02461
Telephone (617) 796-1640
tfitzgerald@newtonma.gov

Public Water Supply
# 3207000

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 2023 construction season included installation of 4,311 feet of new 8” water main, 394 feet of new 6” water main and 175 feet of new 4” water main.

FLUSHING PROGRAM:

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 for total coliform bacteria to monitor the water quality in the distribution system. 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 a pathway or source may allow contamination to enter the drinking water distribution system. MassDEP and EPA require that no more than 5% of the samples in a month test positive; we exceeded the 5% threshold when coliform bacteria were detected in seven samples in September. We were required to conduct and complete a Level 1 Assessment to identify potential problems, and to determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found. A Level 1 assessment is a study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system. We were required to take corrective action and we completed 1 action. It was determined that additional flushing of the system was required, and follow up testing indicated that no coliform bacteria was present after this treatment. In July, one sample was positive for E. coli. Repeat sampling did not confirm its presence, and the cause was determined to be an unsanitary sample site which was subsequently changed.

LEAK DETECTION:

The city performs a semi-annual water leak detection survey on 319 miles of water main with correlation technology. In 2023, two hundred and nine leaks were documented and repaired by the Utilities Division.

CROSS CONECTION PREVENTION:

The Newton Cross Connection Control and Prevention Program operates under MassDEP 310 CMR22.22, which is to protect the water distribution system from contamination. Certified Backflow Testers/Inspectors survey facilities, test backflow devices, review and approve new devices prior to installation.

LEAD AND COPPER SAMPLING:

The MassDEP Lead and Copper Rule that requires that the city test for lead and copper annually. Additional information for lead and copper can be found on the city’s web site at www.newtonma.gov.

Newton failed to collect and analyze the required lead and copper water samples in accordance with the MassDEP-approved plan. One sample was collected several days late. The city received a Notice of Non-compliance (NON) from MassDEP for a monitoring violation. We were required to complete and submit a compliance plan to MassDEP and to conduct all required public notices.

For information on public meetings go www.newtonma.gov or call 617-796-1000 Monday through Friday between 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

James McGonagle
Commissioner of Public Works