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Infrastructure committee hears report on storm-related sewer overflows and collection-system damage
Summary
Staff told the Infrastructure Committee that a heavy July 29 storm caused manhole surcharging, sent brick and stone from aged sewers into treatment screens, and will likely produce future sinkholes and repair needs across Hudson City.
Chair opened the meeting and invited the staff update. Staff member reported that the July 29 storm—"a 9 inch 8 or 9 inch rainstorm on July 29"—caused manholes to surcharge and streets to flood, leaving collection-system debris that clogged the plant's bar screen and required vacuuming and bar-screen clearing.
Staff member said brick- and stone-lined sewers on Columbia, Union and State streets shed material into the system: "there's bricks and stones and rocks... we had to bring Earthcare in to vac all of that out," and warned the committee that the compromised sewers will likely lead to sinkholes as traffic continues to wear away supporting material. The report included photos and field observations of surcharging manholes, flooded catch basins and damaged collection pipes.
The staff presentation stressed this is a transition from no routine overflow sampling to a more regulated regime tied to a new permit and a five-year compliance plan with DEC. Committee members asked about the timing and scope of repairs; staff said crews can clear screens and perform localized repairs but long-term fixes will require additional planning and funding.
