There are over 2,200 water hydrants owned by the city as required to provide adequate fire protection. A hydrant is an outlet from a water main often consisting of an upright pipe with a valve attached from which water can be tapped. It is a source of water provided in most municipalities with municipal water service to enable firefighters to tap into the municipal water supply to assist in extinguishing a fire.

Hydrant Maintenance

Each year the City works to reduce the number of inoperable hydrants through:

• Reconditioning
• Repairs
• Replacements

The Division is also standardizing its hydrants in the system for efficiency in parts and overall repair logistics.

Hydrant Painting

During the warmer months of the year, the City begins its hydrant painting program to update the aesthetics of existing hydrants in the city.

Hydrant Flagging

At the beginning of the winter months, the City places hydrant flags on hydrants that are damaged prone due to snow plows being unable to see them as the snow covers over them. They are essentially metal markers that stick up about 3 feet higher than the top of the hydrant. The purpose of the markers is to eliminate unnecessary hydrant repairs during the already emergency-filled time of year.

LEAK DETECTION

Framingham receives its water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). As an MWRA community, we are obligated to perform comprehensive leak detection surveys to ensure we are losing as little water as possible through leaks in the water mains and services within our system. All water distribution systems need to account for all the water it supplies to its users, therefore minimizing these losses is an important piece of what we do.

With over 250 miles of water main and 17,000+ service connections in Framingham, it is important that we locate and address any leaks in the distribution system to reduce unaccounted for water loss and minimize lost revenue.

UPCOMING LEAK DETECTION

Miles Leak Detection will begin conducting the City's annual leak detection survey of the water system starting on Thursday night, May 5.

Specialized listening devices will be placed on fire hydrants and valve boxes in the road to identify and locate any leaks for the Water Division to address.

Work will primarily occur at night between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., when traffic noise is lowest. Some daytime work may occur depending on the ambient noise in each neighborhood. 

A Hybrid Ford Escape will be used during surveying, marked "Miles Leak Detection". Workers will be wearing bright reflective clothing, tool belts, and large headsets. 

Residents with questions or concerns can email water@FraminghamMa.gov or call 508-532-6050.

FLUSHING

The flushing process may cause discolored water and a reduction in pressure. The discoloration of the water will be temporary and is not harmful. If the condition persists, please contact the Framingham Water Division. The Water Division appreciates your patience as it works to improve the quality of drinking water provided to residents and businesses in Framingham. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

View our most frequently asked questions about this program here FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS. 

QUESTIONS

If you have any questions, please contact the Framingham Water Division at 508-532-6050 or email water@framinghamma.gov. 

ANTICIPATED SCHEDULE

Schedule updates will be provided on a regular basis while flushing is being conducted. Please check this page frequently to find out which streets/zones are slated for flushing.