CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) — The Macomb County Public Works Commission has cleared a major clog in the storm sewer system, solving the ongoing flooding problem.
Inspections showed that logs, railroad ties, tires and other items slowed the flow in the Teske Drain to a trickle.
“This part of Kelly (Road) here is like an ocean when it rains,” Trinity Fotion said.
The blockage is to blame for the heavy flooding, but officials say aging infrastructure has exacerbated it.
“I think it was the worst in all the years I’ve been Public Works Commissioner,” said Public Works Commissioner Candice S. Miller. “We need to make sure (the systems) are properly maintained so the water can flow. We feel really good about this project.”
Officials say the situation was a little more complicated than they initially thought because of the age of the pipes.
Debris clogging the concrete pipe was removed through a manhole near the Canadian National rail line south of 15 Mile Road, and a 100-foot section was vacuumed by a contractor to remove sediment from the underground pipe. Shortly after the large debris was removed, the rainwater level dropped by one meter.
Overgrown vegetation that was obstructing the flow in an open channel section of the Teske Drain next to the railway tracks was also cleared. The drain banks were then graded and armored with limestone to prevent erosion.
Officials tell CBS News Detroit that the county is working on several other projects, including underground infrastructure. They expect many to be completed soon, but an exact date is unknown at this time.
Walter Murphy
