What will MSD do to reduce existing sewer overflows?

MSD is still in the process of developing its Long-Term Control Plan, which will identify the specific actions and projects to reduce combined sewer overflows. While the most efficient and cost effective solutions have not yet been determined, MSD has an array of “grey” options to consider, such as:

• Separating the combined sewers;

• Increasing the capacity of local treatment plants; and

• Building deep tunnels to hold sewage and stormwater during moderate to heavy rainfalls.

The District is considering “green” or “low impact” options, like the use of rain barrels and rain gardens, the replacement of concrete or blacktop surfaces with more green space, and the disconnection of illegal downspouts from sewer lines. These are rather simple ways that you can improve the water quality of our region. Overflows are such a big challenge, however, that MSD will employ a combination of options. Whatever the combination, the District will never be able to eliminate all combined sewer overflows because of engineering practicality and community affordability.

While conducting its planning efforts, MSD is also continuing actions to address the overflow issue. It monitors the impacts of overflows; continues to improve its operation and maintenance programs; and is implementing pollution prevention programs. It has also notified the public about overflow locations and is working to clean the sewers of solids and floatable materials like water bottles and car parts. These are just some of the District’s ongoing activities to lessen the harmful environmental effects of sewer overflows.