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Combined Sewer Overflow Projects

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The CSO master plan targets areas of significant wet weather impacts in an effort to divert storm water from going to the Treatment Plant. At times these projects may not upgrade the most deteriorated sewer system we have, however, it is important to meet regulatory deadlines to reducing CSO activities required by regulatory order. Such activity also provides for cleaner water in our rivers, oceans, and streams.

During our routine general maintenance activities projects undertaken entail road and driveway culvert replacement along with extensive ditching, right of way roadside mowing to limits that have not been reached for years. Also, sewer and drain facilities flushing and cleaning, CSO monitoring and planned maintenance by televising of suspecting troubled infrastructure has always been a priority repairs. Sidewalk repairs to brick, concrete and bituminous types, sign replacements and upgrades and many more similar maintenance items also occupy our daily schedules. The addition of several new subdivisions over the years is now prompting the need for more maintenance and repairs. The city's road network responsibilities along with associated appurtenances are nearing 140 miles, yet we maintain the same crew size.

Significant storm events can add a tremendous burden to all services; sometimes requiring us to rescheduled our planned season's work activities. Cleaning up following natural disasters is a process that is very timely and at times quite costly. However, we have at times seen significant gains by way of financial support, through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in assisting the repair of failed systems, which otherwise would have required budgeting through the normal budget process. We strive to gain all possible assistance that can be retained following a disaster declaration along with competing for the limited 404 Mitigation Grants that become available a few months after a declared disaster.