Haddonfield Issues Statement on Sewage Spill

Haddonfield Mayor Tish Colombi issued a statement late Wednesday on the sewage spill near Wedgewood Swim Club that occurred in March and was cleaned up last week.

Statement concerning overflow of sanitary main behind Wedgewood Swim Club

The overflowing of raw sewage from the collection system is known as a sewer system overflow (SSO). Overflows occur because of (1) blockages in the pipe and (2) from extraneous flows surcharging the sewer pipe during large rain events. The overflow may be in an isolated location where it goes undetected for a long period or it may occur in a spot where it offers the potential for human direct contact such as a street, lawns or residential basement. Without direct contact there is little to no health risk posed. Never-the-less, upon notice of a SSO, the problem causing the overflow is to be addressed and the spill is to be cleaned up to eliminate the potential for human contact creating a potential health concern. The licensed sewer system operator is responsible to follow NJDEP procedures for reporting and cleanup of a SSO.

On March 11, 2013, at 11:40 a.m. a gentleman from the Wedgewood Swim Club report an overflow of the manhole behind the tennis courts. This manhole is located down a 10-foot slope approximate 45-feet away from the courts in a wooded area not open to the public. Sewer Utility employees immediately began the procedures to clean the sewer main. They stopped the overflow within two hours of being notified. Due to the wet conditions of the marsh on that day, they were unable to access the manhole to clean up the residual overflow.

On May 2, 2013, Chris Costa from Camden County Health Department stopped at the Public Works department and spoke with Joe Keating, the Director of Water and Sewer Utility, concerning the cleanup of the manhole. Sewer Utility employees went back to the manhole on May 3 and removed two trash containers full of c-fold towels and grease from the immediate surrounding vicinity. They then spread lime on the remediated area as per NJDEP procedures. This addresses neutralization of the affected area. The cleanup was deemed acceptable by the County Health Department. 

NJDEP was notified of the overflow. A site inspection was conducted and we have been informed that no further action is required at this time. This area is included in the annual DEP inspection of the sewer system.

Late in 2012, Remington and Vernick was tasked with a feasibility study to determine the best way to re-route the sanitary line that runs from the PATCO high speed line down behind Wedgewood Swim Club to a pumping station located in the Public Works Yard. The relocation of this line will ensure easier access for maintenance and inspection.

I have reviewed the problems associated with the overflow and delayed response for cleanup and been onsite at the manhole. Disciplinary actions are being taken as deem appropriate.

Tish Colombi, Mayor
Commissioner of Public Works and Recreation

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