October 30, 2013

For more information contact Linc Mann, 503-823-5328.

An unknown amount of sewage spilled through an outfall pipe into the Willamette River on Tuesday, October 29 at the Ankeny Pump Station in Waterfront Park. The pump station is at the west end of the Burnside Bridge.

People should avoid coming into contact with river water on October 30 because of increased bacteria in the water.

The sewage spill was likely associated with a water main break earlier in the day on SW 4th Avenue at W Burnside Street. The combined sewer system in that area collects runoff from streets and sanitary sewage in the same pipes. Water from the main break entered the combined sewer system through storm drains in the street.

Tuesday morning sewage flowed through a valve at the Ankeny Pump Station and discharged to the river. Maintenance crews closed the valve and stopped the discharge at about 11:00 a.m. yesterday. Due to a renovation project at the Ankeny Pump Station, its stormwater pumps are not currently operational.

The Bureau of Environmental Services works with Portland residents and businesses to protect water quality, public health, and the environment through wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration.

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