The DPW water division is continuing its hydrant replacement program to upgrade and improve some of the existing hydrants in town.  There are over 950 fire hydrants located in town.  This spring we are focusing on hydrants with limited or difficult access.  We are working with the Fire dept. to identify certain hydrants that need to be raised to allow more efficient access for fire personnel to attach hoses to in the event of a fire or other emergency.  Each replacement typically takes only a day and is done entirely by DPW personnel. 

        The water divison is also upgrading old and malfunctioning hydrants.  The new models are equipped with a break-away design which will snap off above ground if they happen to be hit by a vehicle.  This is an important feature because in order to replace an older model the damaged hydrant has to be dug out down to the water main stub.  The new model allows for the repair to be done in a matter of a couple hours.