Sewer Spillage Closes Beaches At Lakewood Parks

LAKEWOOD, WA — The Tacoma - Pierce County Health Department says Tuesday night's sewer main break caused sewage to spill into Lakewood's Flett Creek, forcing them to close two parks and post warning signs at a several more.

Sunnyside Beach Park and Chambers Creek Regional Park's beaches have been fully closed by the spill. Meanwhile, warning signs telling the public not to play in the water have been posted at Kobayashi Park, Chambers Creek Canyon, Chamber Bay Park and at the pump station by Mount View Cemetery.

The health department warns that no one should wade, fish or swim in the water at those parks, as they may be contaminated with fecal matter that can cause gastroenteritis, skin rashes, or other illnesses. Children and the immunocompromised may be especially vulnerable, but it can also harm healthy adults and pets. Anyone who has been brought into contact with the contaminated water should shower and wash their hands thoroughly before eating.

The sewer issues began just before 9 p.m. Tuesday, when Pierce County Planning and Public Works announced that a sewer line had failed along Lakewood Drive, interrupting local sewer service and closing the road between Steilacoom Boulevard and 100th Street.

At the time, neighbors were told to avoid excess water use or flushing their toilets. That's no longer an issue, but the roadway remains closed in the area and there is no ETA on when it may reopen.