A program that seeks to root out improper sump pump hookups discharging into city sewers has so far met with success.
"I think the program is going well," said Ward 1 Councilor Robert Kelly, chairman of the Public Works Committee, which received a report on the program earlier this week. "We're monitoring it step by step; it seems to be on time and on budget."
A number of homes in the city have sump pumps connected to wash sinks that drain into sewer lines, instead of backyards or storm drains. That means stormwater or groundwater can seep into the sewer system, possibly causing backups and overflows.
The hookups are illegal, but most homeowners likely aren't aware of that.
To that end, the Engineering Department began an outreach program earlier this summer offering amnesty to anyone with the improper hookups. In return, the department has asked to send out inspectors to look at the connections.
According to a report from Environmental Partners Group - a consultant hired by the city - between June 2 and July 27, some 100 homes were inspected. Of that number, 55 homes were found to have improper hookups.
The report shows that most of the hookups can be corrected by redirecting the discharge into an "on-site infiltration basin." However,in high groundwater areas, Environmental Partners recommends connecting eight properties to existing storm drains and 10 other properties to new storm drain extensions.
The city's outreach program included sending out a number of fliers to homes in areas where sources of inflow to the sewer system have been found, including areas near Trapelo Road and Lexington Street.
The program is also publicized on the city's Web site.
The program, which is expected to expand to other areas of the city, is funded by a $6.4 million state revolving loan program so homeowners don't have to bear the cost for reconnections.
Richard Conn can be contacted at 781-398-8004 or rconn@cnc.com.
