Sewer Overflow Stopped

Thursday Feb 9th, 2017

Green banner with DPW logo and text "Department of Public Works Press Release"

A clogged sewer line led to an overflow of more than 10,000 gallons from a manhole in the rear of the 6300 block of Park Heights Avenue in Baltimore. The overflow was abated today, Thursday, February 9, 2017, when crews from the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) were able to clear the blockage and clean the location. Closed circuit TV inspections of the line are being conducted.

Because the sewer overflowed onto a large field, it did not directly enter any storm drains or streams. The start time of this overflow is unknown because it was in an isolated area, and could have gone unseen for several days.

The Maryland Department of the Environment and the Baltimore City Health Department have been notified. Baltimore City is in the construction phase of the over $1 billion Consent Decree rehabilitation of our sewer infrastructure.

DPW reminds everyone that fats, oils and grease (FOG) contribute to sewer overflows and backups throughout the City. In addition, "flushable" wipes are not flushable at all and also contribute to sewer backups. They do not dissolve like toilet tissue. If something doesn't belong in the drain, please keep it out of the drain.

For more information about health concerns as a result of sewer overflows please go to: http://health.baltimorecity.gov/sanitary-sewer-overflows-sso.

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