May 30, 2020
Newport City Sewer Infrastructure Concerns
Since the coronavirus outbreak has led to empty toilet paper shelves at stores, there has been a substantial increase in the amount of cloth items specifically sanitary wipes causing issues in the city’s 12 sewer pumping stations and wastewater treatment plant.
These materials that are being flushed are clogging our pumps, which requires our critical staff to dismantle the pumps to remove the blockage, by hand. The pictures included in this post are actual clogs that Pedro, Alex and Tim have had to fix.
“We have cleared more material out than we typically see”
The city wants to remind residents that nothing, but toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. facial tissues, paper towels and even “flushable” wipes should not be flushed. These durable paper products and other non-flushable materials could lead to costly problems with residents’ plumbing, including backups, as well as problems with the city’s wastewater infrastructure. Many of these products are labeled as flushable should not be flushed down the toilet because they do not break down like toilet paper.
The city’s wastewater collection system includes over 21 miles of sewer mains, 500 manholes and 12 pump stations, which are used to pump sewage toward the city’s wastewater treatment plant.
In addition to the staff time and safety required to clear blockages and other issues caused by wipes and other non-flushable items, those items could potentially damage equipment and require it to be replaced.
During these trying times the Newport City Public Works Department is standing firm to continue serving the residents of Newport with drinkable water, wastewater treatment, infrastructure repairs and all other services. Please urge everyone to help us minimize emergencies to keep our City employees safe.
#Stay Home/Stay Safe