Residents of Rahway, New Jersey, are raising concerns over their tap water’s salty taste, which has persisted for months. According to Veolia Water Rahway, the issue stems from elevated chloride levels caused by road salt runoff into the Rahway River, the city’s main water supply.
The company assures residents that the water is safe for most people, but locals remain uneasy, with many switching to bottled water or installing filtration systems.
What’s Causing the Salty Water?
Veolia Water Rahway explains that winter snow removal measures have significantly impacted the city’s water supply.
“Snow and ice control treatments along roadways impact the city of Rahway’s water supply, the Rahway River. This year’s weather has produced chloride levels not previously seen,” the company stated.
Since chlorides from road salt cannot be fully eliminated through standard water treatment, Veolia is supplementing the city’s drinking water with an alternate source until chloride levels drop.
Is the Water Safe to Drink?
According to New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection, the salty taste does not pose a health risk to most people. However, the city of Rahway has issued a public advisory:
“If you are on a low-sodium diet, you may want to consult with your physician.”
Some residents, however, remain skeptical, as they have noticed changes in water quality for years.
Residents Concerned About Water Quality
Many Rahway residents say this issue isn’t new.
Darren Levine, a concerned resident, purchased a water tester to measure Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in the tap water.
“The EPA says the upper limit should be 500, and ours yesterday morning was over 1,700,” Levine said.
Charlene Darko, another resident, has been using a water filter but says it isn’t helping enough:
“This happens all the time in the winter. The salt runoff from the roads gets into the water, and you can really taste it.”
She is also concerned about showering with the salty water:
“I haven’t quite started using bottled water for my face, but if it continues, I might have to. It’s a lot of salt, and it’s harsh.”
Businesses & Residents Turning to Bottled Water
With no immediate solution in sight, many residents and local businesses are switching to bottled water or installing high-end filtration systems.
Patience Opola, a resident, no longer drinks tap water:
“I don’t drink tap water anyway. We’ve had too many issues. We buy bottled water or get gallons delivered to our house.”
Mike Marquez takes precautions for both himself and his pet:
“I’m pretty quick to use bottled water. The same care I take for myself, I take for my dog.”
Businesses like Coffee Box have also taken action. Employee Elijah Herega explained:
“The water here is extremely filtered. We use a very high-end reverse osmosis system.”
What’s Next?
Veolia Water Rahway says it will continue supplementing the city’s water supply with an alternate source until chloride levels decrease. However, since chlorides from road salt cannot be fully removed, residents may have to deal with this issue every winter.
For now, Rahway residents remain frustrated, hoping for a long-term solution to protect their drinking water quality.
