Contractors have begun work in town to camera many of the City's existing sewer lines. This is the first step in a multi-phase project that aims to reduce the amount of unwanted water that gets into the City's sewer system. Inflow and Infiltration (I&I), as it's called, is a major cause of sewer line deterioration and increased treatment costs of wastewater. Minimizing the City's I&I will lower the overall cost of wastewater treatment in the City and extend the life of the City's sewer lines. It will also help some areas to aleviate sewer backup issues. The camera work is being conducted by SMICO, with Allstate Consultants overseeing the engineering. Most of the camera work is being done in the southwest portion Knob Noster, where the City's oldest sewer lines are.
Once the targeted lines have been recorded with the sewer camera, the City will consult with Allstate and SMICO and determine which lines are good candidates for "Cured-in-place pipe" (CIPP) and manhole lining. CIPP is a foam-like spray that will seal existing sewer lines to prevent water from getting in through roots, cracks, illegal connections, etc. We will keep you updated as the project progresses into its next stages. The total cost of this project is expected to be $375,000, with $150,000 of it being paid for by Johnson County through their American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
The current camera work will not disrupt your water service, and you may continue to use water like normal. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call us at City Hall at (660) 563-2595.