North Adams Lifts Most of Boil Water Order After Repairs

A few areas still affected by water line breaks must continue boiling water

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:22am

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a residential street at dusk, with soft, blurred pools of warm light from streetlamps and homes, conveying a sense of comfort and normalcy returning to the community.The restored water supply brings relief to a North Adams neighborhood after a series of line breaks disrupted daily life.North Adams Today

Following a series of water line breaks over the weekend, the city of North Adams, Massachusetts, has largely lifted its boil water order. While most residents can now safely use their tap water, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has maintained the boil water requirement for specific locations directly impacted by the breaks.

Why it matters

Boil water orders can significantly disrupt daily life for residents, requiring them to take extra precautions when using water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. The quick restoration of safe water service is important for the health and convenience of the North Adams community.

The details

Repairs have been completed and water tests have come back clean, according to the mayor's office. However, the DEP has maintained the boil water requirement for several addresses on Main Street, American Legion Drive, State Road, and Biltmore Ave that were directly affected by the water line breaks. Residents in these areas must continue to boil their water or use bottled water for drinking, making ice, preparing food, brushing their teeth, and washing dishes.

  • On Monday morning, a boil water order was put into effect after several water line failures over the weekend.
  • As of 2:20 p.m. on Monday, repairs have been completed and water tests have come back clean.

The players

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)

The state agency that has maintained the boil water requirement for specific locations directly impacted by the water line breaks.

North Adams Water Department

The local agency that explained the repairs made and is working to restore water to the remaining affected areas.

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What they’re saying

“Since the initial public notification, we have made repairs and utilized an interconnect between our High and Low Service Areas, increasing pressures throughout the system. Bacteria samples were collected on December 15, 2025, at areas affected by low pressure.”

— North Adams Water Department

What’s next

The Water Department will notify residents when it's safe to stop boiling or using bottled water in the remaining affected areas.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of a reliable and safe municipal water supply, and the need for prompt action to address infrastructure issues that can disrupt service. The quick response by the North Adams Water Department to restore water quality is commendable, though some residents will need to continue taking precautions until the system is fully restored.