West Springfield “do not use” drinking water order still in effect

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – A section of West Springfield is still under a ‘no use’ drinking water order for up to 48 hours pending test results.

Residents off streets north of Memorial Avenue and south of the CSX railroad tracks are still affected. Mayor Will Reichelt telling 22News that the cause of the contamination is still being looked into, but it was not caused by a breakage in the water system.

“It likely wasn’t coming from the construction on Memorial Ave it wasn’t coming from any other break. It looks like some kind of backflow incident,” said Mayor Reichelt.

Wednesday marked day two of the do not use water order in the Heywood Avenue in West Springfield. Mayor Reichelt says there were complaints from two businesses centrally located in this neighborhood, but as far as they can tell, the contamination wasn’t caused from a breakage in the water system.

“We haven’t heard from anyone else about water issues, but you know with that we went down to investigate we flushed hydrants. We did a bit of coloring of the water so we sent out to get test so you continue to flush. There’s nothing else in the system,” added Mayor Reichelt.

Reichelt says that the DEP is working with local crews to see what these businesses had on hand or what could gotten into the water. Adding that there is no other explanation then it being a backflow issue.

Residents impacted can receive 10 bottles of water when providing identification that shows they live in the affected area. Calls can be made to the West Springfield Fire Department’s non-emergency line to schedule a delivery of water.

West Springfield residents in need of drinking water should contact the West Springfield Fire Department at (413)-732-2650. Questions should be directed to the DPW at (413)-263-3242.

There are also hygiene accommodations in place for those who are unable to shower in their homes you can use the pool showers at Sadly pool on 425 piper road.

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