New Water Line Installation

The North Fork Bridge Transmission Line Bypass Project is designed to enhance the City of Asheville's ability to provide water to customers under normal conditions and during extreme weather events. The project includes installation of 1,700 feet of 36-inch transmission waterline with tie-ins to existing 36-inch and 24 inch-transmission lines to the north and south of the bridge crossing of the Swannanoa River.

Installation is scheduled to begin in late April and run through a portion of June.

The installation will require two shutdowns of the 36-inch waterline and one shutdown of the 24-inch waterline.

During the tie-in processes it is highly possible that discolored water will be noticeable in our water, due to disturbing oxidized manganese sediment in the waterlines. Steps are being taken to mitigate the effects; however the potential for discolored water remains.

If you have any questions, please contact the Town of Biltmore Forest Public Works Department at 274-3919.

Frequently Asked Questions about Discolored Water

Why is my water brown, grayish, or black?

The presence of Manganese in water is most likely the cause of the discoloration.
According to the EPA, manganese in water is not harmful to human health. EPA
lists manganese as a "nuisance chemical" and does not enforce standards for
manganese levels in water. The EPA has set non-mandatory water quality
standards for manganese, which are established as guidelines to assist public water
systems in managing their drinking water for aesthetic considerations, such as
taste, color, and odor. Manganese may also cause a bitter metallic taste.

Why is my water orange or reddish?

The presence of Iron in water is most likely the cause of reddish water. As with
manganese, iron is considered a nuisance chemical and is not regulated by the
EPA. It is not considered to present a risk to human health. However, it may cause
a rusty color, sediment, metallic taste, and reddish or orange staining.

How can I remove stains from my laundry?

Again, it's best not to use bleach based cleaners. Do not rub stains, as that pushes
stains deeper into the fabric. Pre-treat stains with lemon juice or vinegar and let
them sit in the sun for an hour if possible. Then wash as you normally would.