Sanitary Sewer System Study Continues; Smoke Testing in Downtown

PRESS RELEASE

AMES, Iowa – The City of Ames is continuing a citywide, multi-year study of the sanitary sewer system. This study includes video inspection and smoke testing of all City-owned and operated sanitary sewer lines. The purpose of the study is to define sources of extra flows in the sewers that should not be there and develop a program to reduce or eliminate the flows. 

Beginning Monday, July 23, the City’s consultant, Veenstra & Kimm, Inc., will be conducting smoke testing on the sanitary sewer lines in areas that include the area south of Ninth Street, west Cherry Avenue, and east and north of Squaw Creek. This would include neighborhoods in the Old Town, Bandshell Park, Brookside Park, Downtown business and residential areas, and South Duff business district. 

The tests consist of blowing liquid smoke into the sewer lines to determine the condition of the sewer. Smoke will not enter homes or business unless there is a dry trap or defect in the waste water plumbing.  For those with floor drains in the basement or other seldom-used drains or sinks, pouring a pail of water down each one keeps the traps full.   

If smoke enters the premises, it is non-toxic and non-staining. However, staff from Veenstra & Kimm, Inc., will be working nearby and can assist residents in clearing the smoke and possibly point out defects in plumbing systems. 

For questions or more information, contact the City of Ames Public Works Department at (515) 239-5160 or Greg Roth of Veenstra & Kimm at (515) 225-8000 or visit the project website atwww.amessewerstudy.com.