Sunbury reports Walnut Street stabilization, wastewater plant prep and flash-flood response after heavy June storm

Tammy Stone, a city staff member, said during the July 2 Services Committee meeting that compaction testing on the Walnut Street stabilization project recently passed following a dry spell and that the surface course paving and guardrail installation should follow as weather permits.

Stone also reported that the wastewater treatment plant expansion contractor is on site relocating a water line and preparing for installation tasks such as aerator foundations; she said that the contractor—s next 90 days will focus on site preparation. Stone said staff will bring site photos to future meetings to show progress.

Stone described a heavy rain event on June 26 that lasted about 20 minutes and produced more than 2 inches of rain at city gauges. The storm caused flash flooding in several low-lying locations; Stone said staff logged 17 calls reporting high water and that a handful of properties reported basement flooding. "Both of those gauges recorded over 2 inches of rainfall in that short period of time," Stone said, describing gauges at the public-service center and the wastewater plant.

Police and public-service crews responded to road closures and high-water locations, and staff will inspect storm and sanitary lines in affected areas with a camera to determine whether maintenance or repairs are needed. Stone also said council previously authorized purchase of an additional piece of equipment to help flush storm lines, and staff have identified suitable equipment to add to the fleet.

Council members asked for follow-up on camera inspections and timing for equipment acquisition and were told staff will report back as inspections and procurement proceed. No formal action was taken during the meeting on these items.