KEIZER, Ore. — City of Salem crews responded to two sewer pipe breaks near Keizer Rapids Park Wednesday after a routine maintenance operation resulted in the release of thousands of gallons of untreated wastewater.
The spill occurred shortly before noon on November 4 while Public Works crews were inspecting an 18-inch sewer line south of the Willow Lake Wastewater Pollution Control Facility.
According to the City of Salem, an investigative device became stuck inside the sewer pipe. Crews increased pressure in the line in an effort to free the device, causing two sections of the pipe to rupture.
Between 3,000 and 5,000 gallons of untreated sewage escaped from the breaks near Chemawa Road North and Walsh Way North in Keizer.
City crews quickly contained the spill in a roadside ditch and removed the wastewater. Officials say none of the untreated sewage reached nearby waterways.
Cleanup operations are continuing, with repairs to the damaged 18-inch sewer line scheduled to begin Thursday, November 5.
A parallel 24-inch sewer pipe remains operational, allowing the wastewater system to continue functioning while repairs are completed.
City officials are asking residents to stay away from the affected area until cleanup work is finished. Signs have been posted to identify impacted locations and will be removed once officials determine it is safe for people to return.
The City of Salem says routine sewer inspections are an important part of its preventative maintenance program, helping crews identify potential problems before they lead to larger system failures.
