The Baltimore City Department of Public Works estimates that 17,710 gallons of wastewater overflowed into the Gwynns Falls in recent days as a result of structural damage to a segment of 8” sewer pipe in the 2500 block of Edmondson Avenue. The overflow was discovered by DPW’s Office of Compliance and Laboratories (OCAL) during proactive, routine stream sampling on Wednesday, Oct. 25.

DPW crews viewed the line with a closed circuit camera and found multiple leaking points and a collapse in a pipe segment. Crews installed a bypass to stem the flow and make repairs. The discharge was stopped on October 31, 2017 at 5:50 p.m.

This incident occurred underground and did not spill onto any streets. The Baltimore City Health Department and the Maryland Department of the Environment were notified of this release.

The public is reminded to avoid contact with urban waterways due to the risk of pollution. For more information about health concerns as a result of sewer overflows please go to http://health.baltimorecity.gov/sanitary-sewer-overflows-sso.