North Buffalo Sanitary Sewer Project Fact Sheet

What was the purpose of the North Buffalo Sanitary Sewer Project?

The purpose of the project was to reduce the likelihood of sewer overflows near Latham Park to protect public health and comply with state regulations. The purpose of the project was also to restore a vital stream resource in our community by improving water quality and aesthetics over time, and to better equip the stream to filter pollution, while not increasing flood hazards. 
View photos of the completed North Buffalo Sanitary Sewer Project.

Where did the projects take place?

The sewer line was replaced from Latham Park near Hill Street to North Buffalo Wastewater Treatment Plant along North Buffalo Creek.

Why did the City replace the sanitary sewer line?

As the City’s sewer system ages, cracks form in the sewer lines and water begins to seep in from the soil, especially during wet weather. As a result of aging infrastructure and a backlog of pipes that need rehabilitation or replacement, water infiltration comes from several branches of the pipe system. This overloads the major sewer lines draining the basin, originally designed to carry only sewage from homes and businesses located uphill. Infiltration causes sewer overflows during wet weather in low-lying areas such as Latham Park. 

By replacing the existing pipe with a much larger pipe, the City hopes to minimize the frequency of overflows along the project corridor, as well as areas upstream and downstream.

Will the sanitary sewer improvement project eliminate overflows?

The sewer line improvement project will increase the capacity of the sewer system, the first major step in reducing overflows. However, this will not prevent overflows from occurring during an intense storm.

How much did the project cost?

The project was just above $46 million and was unexpectedly finished five months ahead of schedule.

Is the project finished?

Yes. The project was completed April 2008. During the next year, minor clean ups and repairs will be made as needed by the contractor.

What is the purpose of stormwater devices?

The stormwater devices, known as a best management practice (BMP), were installed to improve water quality. Stormwater devices can be either nonstructural or structural devices, designed, constructed and maintained to remove pollutants from runoff before the water reaches our streams and drinking water reservoirs. The two types of permanent devices utilized for this project were: a dry extended detention basin and step pool. A dry extended detention basin is designed to provide temporary storage of stormwater runoff for quantity control purposes. The system is typically installed beneath parking lots, streets, and parks to maximize property usage and lower development costs. Step pools are rock structures used to dissipate energy in steep channels. These structures mimic natural mountain systems where water runs over boulders and drops into pools at their base.

How will the devices be maintained?

The devices will be maintained through visual inspection and observation from city personnel.