Flash flood damages sewer pump station

The Joint Regional Sewer Authority is at work to repair a wastewater pump station damaged by a flash flood that occurred Friday at Coneross Creek. The creek level rose 12 feet in four hours, submerging the station at the wastewater treatment plant and causing a sewer overflow that continues to flow into the creek. Greenstone Construction has been hired to install an emergency connection that will allow the affected portion of the system to be placed back into operation by Thursday. It could take six week to complete the re-habilitation of the pump station. The treatment plant was not damaged and continues to process the remaining wastewater delivered by other pump stations in the system. During the flooding the JRSA, in conjunction with DHEC, decided to reduce operations at the pump station to protect the equipment and reduce hazards to working staff. Since Friday, it’s estimated 1.7 million gallons spilled into the creek. Signs have been posted to alert those in the vicinity to avoid the area and affected waterways. Those signs will remain until DHEC has approved any required cleanup and sampling analysis. People and pets along Coneross Creek, from Return Church Road to Lake Hartwell, should avoid contact with the water until the notice is rescinded. Updates will be posted on the website header at www.ojrsa.org.