COLUMBIANA Collapsed sewer line delays project

Street repairs are last on the list, the manager said.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR SALEM BUREAU
COLUMBIANA -- A collapsed storm sewer line is the culprit in the delayed completion of a city sewer project, City Manager Keith Chamberlin said.
Residents of Pearl and North West streets have seen much of the dirt and debris removed from their yards in recent days. Chamberlin said, however, there is still some repair work to be done, and street repairs are last on the list.
Chamberlin said when crews from Blacktop Pavers of Carrollton began the work in January, they found the old clay storm sewer pipes had collapsed. Replacing the storm sewer line was not part of the specifications for the project, but the work had to be done, he said.
What's included: The nearly $500,000 unfinished project includes replacing sewer lines on Pearl and North West streets. Several residents have voiced their displeasure at recent council meetings, some with shouts.
Silt and other debris clogging the new sewer line, periodic loss of water and electric service, flooded yards and basements and uncovered catch basins are also among the residents' complaints.
They said the crews from Blacktop Pavers pulled out during wet weather in mid-April, taking their equipment with them. North West Street residents feared they wouldn't return.
Chamberlin said the sewer line replacement is necessary because of infiltration of storm water into the sewage system. The old sewer line was cracked in several places, allowing storm water in, he said.
tullis@vindy.com