- What are you doing?
We are engineers, contractors and surveyors working with the City to verify the location of existing sewers (explain survey or other activities). New sewer pipes will be installed as part of the sewer separation project in this sewer basin.
- What is Sewer Separation?
In this sewer basin you have one pipe that collects both rainwater and sewage. This is called a combined sewer. Sewer separation involves constructing new sanitary or storm sewers within a combined sewer service area so sewage and rainwater can be collected in separate pipes. (Refer citizen to project card for more information.)
- How long will you be in my area?
We should finish our surveying work by the end of the year.
- When will construction of the new sewers begin and when will construction be completed?
Engineers will finalize the detail design and drawings for the separation projects next year and construction should begin near the end of 2004. The separation construction projects must be completed by 2007 to meet federal regulatory requirements.
- Which roads will be closed and when? Will you have to work in my yard?
We will not know this until the detail design work is complete.
- Why is smoke coming out of my drain?
We are conducting smoke testing, which is a method used to locate sewers or test the pipe for cracks and breaks. If traces of smoke are detected in your building or home, it is an indication that gases from your plumbing system could also be entering your home. Sewer gases can be dangerous, and some of these gases have no odor or color and can enter a building undetected. If you observe smoke in your building during testing, the City urges you to contact your plumber. Don’t be concerned if you see smoke coming from your rooftop or sewer vents. This is normal. You should have received a notice prior to smoke testing. Please call 404- 529-9211, if you want more information.
- Is my water safe to drink?
Yes. The construction activities will have no effect on your drinking water.
- When construction starts, can I flush my toilet? Pour water down my drain?
Yes. There may be a very short interruption in services when the house plumbing system is connected to the City’s new sewer pipe.
- Where can I get more information?
You can call the Clean Water Atlanta HelpLine at 404-529-9211 or Public Information Officer William Horton at 404-330-6036. You can also email us at cleanwateratlanta@atlantaga.gov.
