Keene Water System Flushing to Run Overnight Starting Sunday

City leaders are asking for patience as the maintenance effort moves through different parts of Keene.

Keene will begin its annual water main flushing program Sunday night, with Public Works crews scheduled to work overnight for roughly three to four weeks as they clean and maintain the city’s water network.

The first shift is set for 10 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, and most of the work is expected to take place between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. City officials say the overnight hours are intended to keep interruptions as small as possible, though some residents may still see brief traffic effects and temporary changes in water quality.

Flushing helps clear out mineral buildup inside the mains. It also allows crews to check and operate valves and fire hydrants, which is important for emergency readiness in the event of fires or water main breaks.

Public Works plans to release a tentative work schedule for the first week on Friday.

During the flushing period, households may notice cloudy or discolored water. The department advises residents to leave one faucet open, run cold water for about 10 minutes, and check whether it clears. If the problem continues, residents should turn the faucet off, wait 30 minutes, and try again.

If laundry becomes stained, officials say not to dry the clothing. Instead, residents can contact Public Works at 603-352-6550 for a stain-removal product.

City leaders are asking for patience as the maintenance effort moves through different parts of Keene.