WASHINGTON SUBURBAN SANITARY COMMISSION 14501 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel, Maryland 20707-5902. (301) 206-8100. Fax:(301) 206-8186. E-Mail:communications@wsscwater.com

SANITARY SEWER OVERFLOW – HYATTSVILLE

LAUREL, MD (March 7, 2008): The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) is reporting that a sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) is occurring in the vicinity of the 4700th block of 41st Street in Hyattsville. A broken sewer main is the cause of the overflow, which began Thursday, March 6, at 1 p.m. and is ongoing. The overflow is fluctuating and currently estimated at 6.2 gallons a minute.

The SSO is being contained in an excavation pit around the pipe. The area around the break has been blocked off and signs have been posted notifying people in the area. The break is 150 feet away from 41st Street and 200 feet away from Northwest Branch and does not pose a threat to the waterway. WSSC staff is mitigating the impact and is monitoring the site until the repair can be completed.

With nearly 5,500 of fresh water pipeline and more than 5,300 miles of sewer pipeline throughout its service area, WSSC appreciates notification from the public if they suspect a sanitary sewer overflow or a water main break. The public can call 301-206-4002, or toll free 1-800-828-6439, at any time to report water or sewer emergencies in Prince George's or Montgomery counties.

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WSSC is the 8th largest water and wastewater utility in the nation, serving nearly 1.8 million residents in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. We operate and maintain seven water and wastewater plants, nearly 5,500 miles of fresh water pipeline and more than 5,300 miles of sewer pipeline. In our 89-year history, we have never had a drinking water quality violation.