Sewerage & Water Board Of New Orleans Community & Intergovernmental Relations Department 625 St. Joseph Street, Room B-47 New Orleans, Louisiana 70165 504-585-2175
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 8, 2005 Contact: Robert Jackson (504)451-0566 Brenda Thornton (504)495-9734
Drinking Water Update Boil Water Advisory Lifted In New Orleans East

The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans issues the following statement:

The State Of Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health, has lifted the boil water advisory to New Orleans East. All of New Orleans East, Southshore and Venetian Isles no longer have to treat the tap water for safety. This action certifies that the tap water in the stated areas is potable and able to be used for drinking, cooking, bathing, showering and washing hands. Although the area of New Orleans west of the Industrial Canal received its post-Katrina certification on October 6th, New Orleans East was devastated resulting in multitudinous water leaks and areas of low water pressure. Although work continues, all areas are experiencing consistent water pressure with excellent water quality.

The Boil Water Advisory shall remain in affect for the portion of the City Of New Orleans termed the Lower Ninth Ward. The area to be still covered under the boil water advisory is als described as that portion of zip code 70117 east of the Industrial Canal.

The Sewerage and Water Board asks that citizens continuing to return to the city should run all hot and cold water taps for 10 to 15 minutes to flush the plumbing of their homes and businesses. People may find they can detect a slight bleach odor from the chlorine in the water. Taps should not be left to run continuously. We remind residents to let icemakers cycle several times before using the ice.

The personnel of the Board and contracted companies continue to work throughout the city locating and repairing leaks.