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City begins smoke testing along Indian Creek trunk line to locate sewer infiltration points
Summary
Public works staff began smoke testing the trunk sewer line along Indian Creek and manholes near West End Avenue to locate improper connections and inflow; initial results show issues at manholes and limited smoke elsewhere.
City public-works staff briefed the council that smoke testing began on the trunk sewer line along Indian Creek and will continue through neighborhoods to identify improper connections and inflow points.
A public-works presenter said crews started near West End Avenue, worked north to the treatment plant and would next test areas north of the railroad tracks and Knoll Ridge. “We're just kind of working our way through town,” the presenter said. Staff asked residents to report visible smoke inside homes so crews can inspect; smoke in roof stacks can indicate the test is finding connected defects.
The presenter said crews are popping manhole lids along the trunk line because manholes are common locations for problems and that “most of the manholes are having problems,” with water coming in along the creek. He noted the pipes appear generally in good condition because smoke has not been seen between manholes. Staff said they will compile a final report to identify priority repair locations and recommend a repair program.
Smoke testing is an investigative, noninvasive method that can reveal where stormwater or other sources are entering sanitary sewers. Staff said the next steps are to complete testing, analyze findings, and develop candidate repair sites with cost estimates or phased work plans for council consideration.
