The City's wastewater collection system includes 865 miles of sanitary sewer lines, 367 miles of stormwater lines, 18,823 catch basins and drywells, and numerous swales and stormwater detention facilities. We have a comprehensive program to operate this system for the benefit of the citizens and the environment. We meet our National Pollutant Discharge Systems (NPDES) permit requirements, and we're working to improve the water quality within the Spokane River.
The City maintains three types of collection pipes: sanitary sewers only, combined sanitary and stormwater sewers, and separated stormwater sewers.
We routinely conduct complete inspections of all new or repaired collection system projects within the City sewer service area and complete preventative maintenance is conducted. Repairs are made to collapsed lines, older lines are upgraded, manhole rings and covers are replaced, modifications are made to reduce maintenance requirements, and regular cleaning of storm inlet structures are conducted.
Rehabilitation of existing collection system infrastructure includes the use of no dig (trenchless technology) as well as direct dig and replacement options. Trenchless options (pipe lining and spot repairs) are utilized where possible to reduce maintenance costs and minimize traffic disruption.
We currently are working on a comprehensive strategy to reduce flows to the Spokane River of untreated stormwater and overflows from combined sanitary and storm sewers. We are taking an integrated planning approach to this work that allows us to consider all discharges to the River and develop a comprehensive solution that helps bring us the best value for our investment.
We strive to provide excellent service to our customers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you are aware of a sewer problem, please call 509.625.7900 to report the problem.
The Sewer Construction program ensures that the wastewater collection system and the associated sewer pipes and pump station facilities consistently meet the needs of the community, are properly operated and maintained, and meet water quality standards. Major capital improvements of the wastewater collection system include elimination of septic systems to protect the aquifer, elimination of obsolete sewer lagoons, and improvement and/or replacement of the sewer trunk lines. To learn more about the current and planned sewer construction projects, see the wastewater 6-year construction plan.
Each year the City's Engineering Services Department develops and maintains a construction schedule for the variety of public infrastructure construction projects planned. You can review the schedule, which includes sewer projects, to keep up to date on the status of new projects on the Streets Department's Construction page.
