Sewer Overflow into Gwynns Falls Abated Same Day

Wednesday Jul 10th, 2019

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

Trash and debris contributed to a sewer overflow Tuesday, July 9, in the 4600 block of Briarclift Road.  This overflow of about 14,400 gallons occurred during dry weather and was caused by a combination of trash, rocks and other debris.  The overflow discharged from a sanitary sewer manhole and affected the Gwynns Falls. Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) crews abated it the same day by relieving the choke with a pressure hose.

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.

The public is advised to avoid direct contact with the receiving waters impacted by this or any other overflow. Waterways throughout Baltimore City are considered impaired, and may not meet applicable standards for full-body contact recreation, including swimming, regardless of the impact of a specific sewer overflow. 

For additional information regarding potential health impacts, please visit: https://health.baltimorecity.gov/sanitary-sewer-overflows-sso or call 410-396-4428.

For additional information pertaining to a specific overflow, please call the Baltimore City Department of Public Works at 410-545-6541.

As a reminder, due to the ongoing network outage, our interactive maps are temporarily out of service.

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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.