DPW Reports Sanitary Sewer Overflow Stopped on Line Damaged by Contractor

Friday Oct 5th, 2018

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

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has stopped a sewer overflow from a large main in South Baltimore.

A private contractor, working for another utility, struck the line in late September. Earlier this week, wastewater from this break began overflowing into the Gwynns Falls, near where it enters the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River, 

The incident occurred in the Westport area, on Kent Street near Sidney Avenue. The flow was stopped this morning, and totaled approximately 378,600 gallons. 

Much of the overflow is contained in a pit and is being pumped to another sewer line. This will allow for repairs to the main to take place.   

The Baltimore City Health Department and the Maryland Department of the Environment have been notified of this incident.

The public is reminded to avoid contact with urban waterways due to the risk of pollution. For more information about health concerns as a result of sewer overflows please go to http://health.baltimorecity.gov/sanitary-sewer-overflows-sso.

Related Stories

DPW is Now Accepting Public Comments on the Modified Sanitary Sewer Consent Decree Revised Emergency Response Plan 

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW)  has announced the release of its Revised Emergency Response Plan (ERP), a reference tool to be used by City personnel during a sanitary sewer overflow or reported building backup emergency. The Modified Sanitary Sewer Consent Decree (MCD) requires DPW to submit a revised Emergency Response Plan to protect the public health and welfare in the event of an unpermitted release, spill, or discharge of pollutants from the sewer collection system or in the event of a reported building backup.

Register Now for the Mayor's Fall Cleanup, October 26

Mayor Brandon M. Scott, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW), and the Mayor's Office of Community Affairs have announced the upcoming Mayor's Annual Fall Clean-up and Day of Service. Residents, volunteer groups, and community associations are encouraged to register now to participate in the city-wide effort to beautify neighborhoods. The event will run on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Mattress and Box Spring Recycling Now Available at Quarantine Road Landfill Residential Drop-Off Center



Looking to get rid of an old mattress? Baltimore City residents can now drop off mattresses and box springs for recycling at the Baltimore City Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Quarantine Road Landfill Residential Drop-Off Center. In the coming months, DPW will expand this mattress recycling service to other Residential Drop-Off Centers across the city.

Visit the Newsroom