Unstable soils and high groundwater levels continue to cause challenges for the sanitary sewer lines that run through Griffin Park.
Yesterday, the City Water Department encountered a new depression near the sanitary sewer line in Griffin Park. Upon further inspection, it was determined that section of sewer line was failing and requires an emergency fix. This week’s discovery comes after City crews and contractors wrapped up a separate failing sewer line issue in Griffin Park on Friday.
“We’re dealing with a combination of soil, environmental, and material issues that are problematic for our sanitary sewer system,” said Brad Palmer, City Utilities Director. “If we didn’t have such high river flows this year, our soils likely wouldn’t be so volatile. Our clay pipes are susceptible to the soil and high water issues.”
The sewer line that runs through Griffin Park carries two-thirds of the City’s wastewater to the City’s wastewater treatment plant. That wastewater is currently being diverted through a temporary line until a permanent fix can be made.
“We’re looking at all our options right now and working toward a quick long-term solution,” said Palmer.
Until then, the City has the impacted area taped off and asks the public to avoid the area.
Earlier this summer, the City discovered a separate ground depression along a different section of the same sewer line. Ongoing heavy rains combined with high groundwater levels delayed repairs and required assistance from specialty contractors.
Approximately 1.2-million gallons of wastewater flow through the City’s wastewater system daily.