(12/P134) TRENTON – The boil-water advisory in place in Atlantic City as a result of Hurricane Sandy has been lifted, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin announced today.

The boil-water advisory was lifted after tests of the city’s water supply came back showing no evidence of bacteria.

“This is an important step as we begin the slow recovery of our storm-battered coastline,” Commissioner Martin said. “Residents and businesses can now be assured that the water provided by the city is safe for consumption.”

Governor Christie announced today that he is rescinding an order that closed Atlantic City casinos in preparation for Hurricane Sandy, while also lifting the mandatory evacuation order for Atlantic City residents.

The Governor was notified by Division of Gaming Enforcement Director David Rebuck that the order reinstating certificates of operation for the twelve casinos was signed within minutes of the Governor’s lifting of the mandatory evacuation order for the residents of Atlantic City, originally issued on Oct. 27.

The city issued the precautionary boil-water advisory after the Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority’s treatment plant in Pleasantville experienced flooding during the storm.  A large tank that provides disinfection in the treatment process had become flooded. But tests taken by the Atlantic City Utilities Authority and reviewed by the DEP confirmed there are no problems with the water.

The water utility is advising customers to flush their water systems by running faucets for three to five minutes. The utility also recommends that customers empty and clean automatic ice makers and chillers, drain and refill water heaters if the temperature had been set to below 113 degrees, and run water softeners and cartridge filters through several regeneration cycles. Water reservoirs in tall buildings should be drained and refilled.

For information on water treatment systems in New Jersey that remain under boil-water advisories, please visit: www.nj.gov/dep/special/hurricane-sandy/boil_water.htm