City implements street maintenance and FOG program to reduce stormwater pollution

The City of Lancaster held a public meeting on April 3, 2025, to discuss the Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Plan, focusing on maintenance efforts and community education initiatives aimed at improving local water quality.

The meeting began with a presentation on the importance of street maintenance, particularly street sweeping. City officials emphasized the need for residents to move their vehicles off the roadways to facilitate this process. The primary goal of street sweeping is to collect litter and debris that could otherwise enter the stormwater system, potentially leading to pollution in local waterways.

City representatives explained that street sweepers act like giant vacuum cleaners, removing debris from the streets and storm drains. They highlighted the installation of debris screens at Clay Street, which are designed to capture waste before it can flow into the CSO system. This proactive measure aims to reduce the amount of litter that reaches the waterways during rain events.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the city's Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) program, which educates residents and local restaurants on proper disposal methods. Officials encouraged community members to avoid pouring cooking oils down the drain, as this can lead to clogs in both personal and municipal plumbing systems. Educational efforts include distributing magnets and scrapers at community events to promote better waste disposal practices.

The discussion also touched on the city's investments in green infrastructure, which helps absorb stormwater and mitigate runoff. Officials indicated that further details on green infrastructure would be presented in upcoming slides.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to maintaining clean streets and educating the public about practices that protect the environment. The initiatives discussed are part of a broader strategy to manage stormwater effectively and reduce the impact of CSOs on local water quality.