Baltimore County upgrades sewer systems and targets sanitary overflow closures

Baltimore County is making significant strides in addressing its sanitary sewer overflow issues, as highlighted during the Planning Board Meeting and Public Hearing on February 6, 2025. The Department of Public Works and Transportation reported that in 2024, over 18,000 feet of new or replacement sewer mains were installed, alongside the rehabilitation of more than 74,000 feet of existing sewer lines. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to eliminate areas of concern related to sewer overflows, particularly during heavy rainfall.

One of the key areas discussed was the Richland Manor Wastewater Treatment Plant in Perry Hall, which has been identified as deficient due to increased flow during storms. Rehabilitation projects are underway to reduce this flow, and plans for a new pumping station are in progress, aiming to eventually replace the existing treatment plant.

In Parkville, significant rehabilitation work has been completed to address overflows caused by stormwater infiltration. The Bureau of Utilities is currently working to close off problematic structures, with one already completed as of January 23, 2025. Similar efforts are ongoing in the Marnat Road area, where illegal connections have been eliminated, but further construction of a relief sewer is necessary before closing the overflow structure.

The meeting also addressed concerns in Brooklynville, where the area was designated as deficient by the Baltimore County Council, despite the Department of Public Works not identifying it as such. Developers are required to construct relief sewers to mitigate surcharging during heavy rains, with projects currently in the design phase.

In the Powder Mill area, four sanitary sewer overflow structures are set to be closed following extensive rehabilitation work, which has significantly reduced the risk of overflows. Lastly, in Catonsville, ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the sewer system are also aimed at closing overflow structures, although one will require additional construction by Baltimore City.

These initiatives reflect Baltimore County's commitment to improving its sewer infrastructure and reducing the risk of overflows, which have significant implications for public health and environmental safety. As these projects progress, the county anticipates removing several areas of concern from its maps, signaling a positive step towards enhanced wastewater management.