DPW Reports Sanitary Sewer Overflows from Aug. 18 Rain

Monday Aug 21st, 2017

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

An estimated 48,500 gallons of sewage mixed with rain water was released into the Jones Falls on Friday, Aug. 18, due to water infiltrating the sewer system during the heavy rains on that evening.

These overflows occurred at two structured, underground outfalls: North Charles Street and West Lanvale Street, 42,500 gallons and at West Garrison Avenue & Queensberry Road, 16,000 gallons.

Structured overflows were designed into the City’s sewer system more than 100 years ago to provide such releases when the sewers became inundated with rainwater. They are being eliminated as part of the City’s sewer system consent decree.

The Baltimore City Health Department and the Maryland Department of the Environment were notified of the releases.

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

Related Stories

DPW Offices, Sanitation Yards Closed on Juneteenth, Monday June 19

Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) Director Jason W. Mitchell reminds residents that Juneteenth is Monday, June 19, 2023, and is a City holiday. DPW offices and sanitation yards will be CLOSED.

Weekly trash and recycling collections are NOT impacted by the Juneteenth closure. Monday is not a scheduled curbside trash or recycling collection day.

DPW Extends Deadline to Receive Discount for Paperless Billing Sign Up

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) is pleased to announce that Baltimore City residential water customers have more time to sign up for Paperless Billing and receive a one-time, 5% discount off a monthly water bill. Residents who enroll in paperless billing by Friday, June 30, will receive the 5% discount.

DPW Offices, Sanitation Yards Closed Memorial Day: Monday, May 29

Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) Director Jason W. Mitchell reminds residents that Memorial Day is on Monday, May 29, 2023, and is a City-observed holiday. DPW offices and sanitation yards will be CLOSED.

Visit the Newsroom

Contact

James E. Bentley II
410-545-6541		 Jennifer Combs
410-545-6541
After hours, weekends, or holidays please call 410-396-3100 for the duty officer

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works supports the health, environment, and economy of our City and region by cleaning our neighborhoods and waterways and providing its customers with safe drinking water and sustainable energy practices.