Engineer Proposes Small Diameter Gravity Sewer Alternative for Environmental Impact Report

During the recent Special Town Council Meeting held on August 14, 2025, in Paradise, California, discussions centered around the evaluation of the town's sewer system project, particularly the Pure Step and Steg systems. The meeting highlighted the need for a simplified approach to address ongoing issues with the current sewer system.

A key speaker emphasized that many of the problems associated with the Pure Step system do not apply to the Steg system. This perspective aligns with findings from Bennett Engineering in 2017, which were largely supported by an ad hoc committee's recommendations. The speaker proposed that the environmental impact report for the sewer project should include a small diameter gravity sewer as one of its alternatives, alongside the "no project" option.

While acknowledging a lack of extensive experience compared to other experts present, the speaker urged the council to consider this alternative seriously. The suggestion reflects a broader concern for finding viable solutions to the town's infrastructure challenges, particularly as the community continues to recover and rebuild.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the importance of exploring various options for the town's sewer system, which is crucial for both environmental sustainability and community health. As the council moves forward, the inclusion of diverse alternatives in the environmental impact report will be essential in determining the best path for Paradise's future infrastructure development.