From left, Utilities Technologies crewmen Matt Bruns, Bill Miller and Neil Prater operate smoke-generating equipment at a manhole in a Cleveland, Tenn., neighborhood as part of an effort to detect breaks in nearby sewer lines.CLEVELAND, Tenn. – Smoke is blowing through manholes and sewer lines in the Cleveland neighborhoods between Keith Street and Interstate 75, and from the Village Center down to Tinsley Park.
As part of detection efforts to locate damage to the wastewater system, nontoxic smoke tests play a critical role in Cleveland Utilities’ long-term rehabilitation plans for its wastewater system, according to officials.
The 10-year “Strategic Commitment to Protect the Environment” – also known as SCOPE-10 – recently started its second year of operations.
“This process has allowed for the identification of problem areas and the development of rehabilitation plans for these areas,” said Greg Clark, manager of the SCOPE-10 program.
The project goal is to reduce unwanted water flow – known as inflow and infiltration – into the city’s wastewater system, hopefully reducing the number of sewage overflows that can occur after heavy rains. Stormwater typically invades the sewer system through damaged pipes or illegal downspout connections.