Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) Interim Director Richard J. Luna continues to urge residents and businesses throughout the Baltimore region to support the “Voluntary Water Restriction,” which was issued following Thursday’s fire at the Cromwell Pumping Station.

“The City of Baltimore extends its sincere appreciation to the residents and businesses in Baltimore City and Baltimore and Howard Counties. However, we need everyone’s ongoing cooperation to reduce excessive water usage throughout the region as we continue our work to repair the Cromwell Pumping Station,” said Interim Director Luna.

The Voluntary Water Restriction helps to ensure continued stability of the water system as DPW works to restore operations at the Cromwell Pumping station. Since the fire at the Cromwell Pumping station, DPW staff and contractors have been working to restore electricity at the plant and to repair two pumps damaged during the fire.

DPW staff are continuously monitoring water levels throughout the system, which provides drinking water to 1.8 million people throughout the Baltimore region. At this time, there is no disruption to service or water quality.

Six Ways to Save Water!

Here are six ways Baltimore area residents can help limit excessive water usage:

• Avoid washing cars, vehicles, boats, or other outdoor equipment
• Repair or replace leaking hoses and sprinklers
• Avoid pre-rinsing dishes and please run the dishwasher only when full
• Do not let the faucet flow unnecessarily while brushing your teeth or shaving
• Run full loads of laundry, rather than smaller ones, and use proper water levels 
• Avoid watering lawns and gardens

These water conservation measures are especially important during peak service hours, morning and evening hours.