Goldsboro, N.C. — Beginning Wednesday, May 7, the City of Goldsboro Water Treatment Plant will temporarily modify its water disinfection process by stopping the use of ammonia and switching to chlorine-only treatment. This change will last for approximately six weeks, with ammonia being reintroduced into the process on Wednesday, June 18.

Under normal operations, the city uses chloramine—a combination of chlorine and ammonia—as a disinfectant to treat drinking water. Chloramine is valued for its stability and long-lasting effectiveness as water travels through the distribution system.

The temporary switch to chlorine-only disinfection is recommended annually by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. This practice helps maintain a high level of sanitation throughout the water distribution system and is required for a minimum of three consecutive weeks each year.

Residents may notice a temporary chlorine taste or odor in their tap water during this period. In addition to the disinfection change, the City of Goldsboro will also carry out its annual unidirectional flushing program to clean out the water lines. This may result in some short-term discoloration in the water supply.

Officials stress that the water remains safe to drink and use. However, residents are encouraged to check for discoloration before washing white laundry to avoid potential staining. Short bursts of flushing at home may help clear any discolored water from pipes.

For more information, residents can contact the City of Goldsboro at 919-735-3329.