Tainted tap water found in 3 buildings at U campus

Star Tribune

Last update: April 10, 2009 - 12:09 AM

A University of Minnesota official said it may be unsafe to drink tap water in three research and clinical buildings on campus.

The university canceled more than 600 dentist appointments after discolored, foul-smelling water was reported Wednesday in Moos Towers and in the Phillips-Wagensteen building, University spokesperson Daniel Wolter said.

THREE BUILDINGS AFFECTED: After investigating on Thursday, the university also found that the tap water in Diehl Hall was tainted. All three buildings are at the end of a water main, and Wolter said the university has been working to flush the systems of the three contaminated buildings since Wednesday night.

CAUSE NOT KNOWN: The university hasn't found the cause of the contamination yet, but Wolter said he suspected it was unrelated to the recent odor and taste issues in the Minneapolis water supply.

SAFE ELSEWHERE: The water is fine in the rest of the campus facilities, and the university is continuing its investigation, Wolter said.

ALEX ROBINSON

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