HICKORY — Firefighters will run the annual hydrant inspection and maintenance program across the city service area from March 30 through May 30, the City of Hickory said March 26, 2026.
Firefighters and public utilities staff will work close to busy streets while flowing hydrants. The city asked motorists to slow down near crews.
Battalion Chief Jeff Hoyle said the main point is to verify each hydrant for fire use. While hydrants are flowing, crews also measure pressure and available water. He said the work helps keep the city’s fire insurance rating.
Public Utilities Director Will Hamblin said flushing also helps water quality but can briefly discolor taps. If that happens, call the city at 828-323-7427 to flush the main. After the main clears, homeowners should run an outside spigot. Do not use hot water right after discoloration so the water heater does not take in discolored water.
The city said there are more than 2,000 hydrants, so the work takes months. Most checks are weekdays 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; some weekend or after-hours work may be needed. CodeRED alerts through Catawba County’s Community Alert Program can flag neighborhood flows.
Questions: Public Utilities at 828-323-7427 or Hoyle at 828-323-7420.
The March 26 notice does not list a map of this year’s zones or how many hydrants failed last year’s check.
Official release from City of Hickory, March 26, 2026. https://www.hickorync.gov/firefighters-check-city-hydrants
