You can help better Jefferson County’s sewers in 2024—here’s how

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Got sewage? Jefferson County Environmental Services is seeking your help with new sewer overflow mitigation projects. Join members of the county at four crucial sewer improvement project meetings to stay informed and share your insights.

What are the Jefferson County Sewer Projects?

Spanning across Jefferson County, the new sewer projects will encompass the rehabilitation of over 300,000 feet of existing sewer mains and service lines. The initiative further entails the replacement of over 6,000 feet of force main piping and the removal of a pump station through the upgrading of the sewer pipe.

4 Jefferson County engagement meetings you can attend in Jan. 2024

If you want to see important changes across Birmingham, now’s the time to step up and get involved. A great way to do this is to attend Jefferson County’s community engagement meetings this January. When you take part in these meetings, you’ll be part of the planning process for the upcoming sewer projects. 

“We’re hosting meetings to update the public on the utilization of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated through the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. The state, in collaboration with the county, is combining ARPA funds with a state match and county contributions to enhance the sanitary sewer system. We want the public to know what exactly the money is going towards in these joint projects and want to hear their input.”

David Denard, Director of Environmental Services, Jefferson County

JeffCo residents and community members are invited to come out and share their ideas at the scheduled meetings below:

• Monday, January 22 | Ensley Recreation Center
• Tuesday, January 23 | Community Room of Hoover City Hall
• Wednesday, January 24 | Roosevelt City Recreational Center
• Thursday, January 25 | Southern Museum of Flight

Anyone not able to attend a meeting can review project information at the Jefferson County Environmental Services Office during normal business hours, Monday-Friday from 8AM-4PM.

What are the Jefferson County sewer overflow projects hoping to achieve?

Jefferson County’s sewer projects contribute to the broader sewer maintenance program, aiming to enhance public and environmental health by improving water resources in the community.

To address sanitary sewer overflows, the county has conducted a detailed analysis of water inflow sources. Rather than enlarging pipes, Jefferson County Environmental Services has opted for cost-effective and ratepayer-friendly solutions. Through sewer line rehabilitation, the county will utilize a trenchless method—inserting a felt liner with epoxy.

Why this method?

• Instead of digging up a new line, this method will minimize water influx from aging pipes, particularly those with frequent joints, like clay pipes.
• This process not only prevents overflow by keeping excess water out, but it also extends the sewer’s lifespan, essentially creating a pipe within a pipe.
• This approach will help avoid neighborhood disruptions and is more economical than pipe replacement, proving to be a superior and community-friendly solution.

“These projects symbolize a joint investment in the community, showcasing the dedication of state legislators and senators in securing funding through the Department of Environmental Management. The county commission is equally committed to sustaining and enhancing the sewer system, emphasizing affordability for ratepayers. It’s a collaborative effort to ensure the efficient functioning of the sewer system while prioritizing cost-effectiveness.”

David Denard, Director of Environmental Services, Jefferson County

Sign up for Jefferson County’s newsletter to stay informed on upcoming events, online surveys and more ways to get involved.

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