Groves City Council approves new sewer line to alleviate bottleneck on 25th Street

A critical infrastructure upgrade is on the horizon for the City of Groves, as city council members unanimously approved plans to alleviate severe sewer bottlenecks during a meeting on February 24, 2025. The decision centers on addressing significant flow issues at the intersection of 25th Street and Cleveland, where over 8,000 gallons of wastewater per minute converge during wet weather, far exceeding the current capacity of 4,700 gallons per minute.

The existing sewer system, originally designed with a 30-inch pipe, has been compromised by a previous slip-lining project that reduced its capacity by 53%. To combat this issue, city engineers proposed the installation of a new 24-inch pipe above the existing line, which is expected to restore the system's intended flow capacity and provide much-needed relief to residents experiencing backups during heavy rainfall.

City officials emphasized that while the new line will not add structural stress to the existing system, it is crucial to conduct detailed surveys to determine the optimal placement of the new infrastructure. The anticipated timeline for construction is approximately 15 months, with hopes to expedite the process as much as possible.

The council's approval of this project marks a significant step toward improving the city's wastewater management and ensuring the health and safety of its residents. As the city moves forward, the focus will remain on minimizing disruptions and effectively managing the construction process.