Deadly legionella bacteria once again detected in TWW system

By BiLL SANserViNO

Seven cases of Legionnaires’ disease have been reported between last October and March in towns served by Trenton Water Works.

According to the state Department of Health, the cases occurred in Trenton, Ewing, Lawrence Township and Hamilton township. Of the seven, two individuals have died.

The state has been conduct- ing testing for legionella in all TWW towns since cases were first reported in late 2021.

In an effort to mitigate the problem, TWW started low-velocity flushing of water mains last month using specialized equipment throughout its 683-mile water distribution system next week.

Thieactivity will continue through May. TWW personnel is conducting the flushing Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Equipment used by TWW per- sonnel may sometimes remain in place overnight.

“The goal of the low-velocity water main flushing is to mitigate conditions that promote the growth of pathogens, including legionella, by increasing and sustaining chlorine residuals,” said Sean Semple, acting director of the city’s Department of Water and Sewer, which operates Trenton Water Works. “Once we achieve this water-treatment goal, we will