Sewer overflows are caused by aging, deteriorating sewer systems. Unlike streets, where potholes and cracks are easy to find and repair, most of the sewer system is buried underground. Nearly 500 miles of sewer lines, in various stages of deterioration, drain to the main sewer line, or outfall, that runs through Latham Park. 

During wet weather, groundwater and rainwater leaks into the lines through cracks in the pipes, and extra water comes in where storm sewers are mistakenly connected to the sanitary sewer. The main sewer line through Latham Park wasn't large enough to carry the added flows, so the water backed up, causing overflows in Latham and Lake Daniel Parks.

To address the sewer overflows in the Latham Park and Lake Daniel Park areas, City Council appoved the North Buffalo Sanitary Sewer Project in November of 2003. The initial design phase of the project began in 2004. Contractors were able to finish the entire project by April 2008, 5 months ahead of schedule.

Due to the magnitude of the project, a large number of steps had to be taken before completion. The first step involved construction of a new sewer pump station and a new force main that diverts flow from the near capacity North Buffalo to the City's upgraded South Buffalo system. The second part of the plan increased the capacity of the sewer line that runs through Latham Park by installing a larger diameter pipe. The sewer line was replaced from Latham Park near Hill Street to the North Buffalo Wastewater Treatment Plant. Also, to improve water quality, a structural dry extended detention basin along with a step pool was installed.

Learn more about the North Buffalo Sanitary Sewer Project:

Project Fact Sheet

Construction Photos

Post Construction Photos