Public Utilities

Unidirectional Flushing Program

The Unidirectional Flushing Program, or UDF program, is an advanced maintenance program of the city’s drinking water system, to systematically flush the system to improve the water quality in a specific region of the city. The program uses hydraulic modeling software so the city can plan for the systematic flushing of identified zones in our distribution system, allowing for more effective flushing while using less water.

How It Works

The City of Clearwater has hired a consultant team to develop and will use city water crews to conduct the UDF program. The UDF program is a more effective and water efficient method to flush the pipelines to assure maximum water quality.  Only those areas on public water are affected; private water systems are not flushed as a part of this program.

Valve inspection and hydrant flushing are conducted in a few areas during the hydrant flushing process. Residents may observe city personnel or flushing signs at road entrances, indicating that valve inspections and hydrant flushing is being conducted along a street.

During the hydrant flushing period, residents may notice reduced water pressure and possibly discolored water. While the water remains safe to drink, the city recommends that faucets run for five to ten minutes in the event that water discoloration is noticed. The water should run clear after that.

Hydrant Flushing Notices

A hydrant flushing notice for the Unidirectional Flushing Program was sent to residents in the most recently affected part of Clearwater. The map shows the area bounded by Gulf to Bay Boulevard, U.S. Highway 19, Nursery Road, and Belcher Road.

Questions?

Call the City of Clearwater’s Engineering Dept. at (727) 562-4591.