7 a.m., Sept. 10, 2022  -- For Immediate Release

Precautionary Boil Water Advisory Cancelled

Tests Negative for Bacteria 

The boil water advisory in place for a large portion of Dubuque has been lifted/cancelled following negative test results for the presence of coliform bacteria. Based on these results, it is believed the original water sample may have been contaminated in the process and there was no contamination of the water system. 

Water customers may return to normal water use. If water is cloudy and does not clear after allowing the water to run for several minutes, contact the City of Dubuque Water Department at 563.589.4291.   

Out of an abundance of precaution, and in consultation with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the City issued a boil water advisory after a tank inspection test conducted on Thursday, Sept. 8, at the City’s Park Hill Water Tower on Gay Street indicated possible bacterial contamination of the water in that tank. The tank was isolated from the distribution system and has not been in service since that test.   

Following the initial test, additional water quality samples were taken from the water distribution system in the advisory area to determine the absence or presence of coliform bacteria. The test results confirmed absence of coliform bacteria. Chlorine levels were also monitored before and after the original test and safe levels were maintained throughout.  As a result, the advisory is lifted and the Park Hill Water Tower will be put back into service. Customers should not notice any changes in service. 

“We understand that this precautionary advisory was a significant inconvenience for customers,” said Water Department Manager Christopher Lester. “We take our responsibility to provide safe water very seriously and we appreciate everyone’s patience with this process to ensure the safety of our water."