Rapid Sewer Inspections Taking Place Downtown

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Thus Far No Immediate Repair Projects Identified, Full Inspection by Aug. 1

INDIANAPOLIS – Citizens Energy Group crews have inspected all sewer manholes in the one-square-mile area of downtown and have found no structural, operational or public safety issues requiring immediate repairs. Checking the manholes is part of an ongoing rapid inspection of downtown sewers begun last week after the recent collapse of 100-year-old sewer structures below two downtown intersections.

In addition to the manhole inspections, Citizens crews also will complete a visual inspection of the downtown sewer system by August 1 to identify lines that may need to be cleaned and/or repaired. Based on the inspection results, work will be prioritized with projects completed over the next 30-90 days. Every effort will be made to minimize traffic disruptions from sewer cleaning and repair projects.

“We are pleased with the results of our sewer manhole inspections and are committed to completing a full visual inspection of the downtown sewer system by August 1,” said Jeff Willman, Vice President, Water Operations for Citizens. “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we complete the inspection process to ensure safe and reliable sewer service to the downtown area.”

Each year, Citizens inspects about 300 miles of its sewer system to identify potential problems and plan system improvement projects. Citizens has been rehabilitating about 16 miles of sewer each year with an annual investment of nearly $20 million. Since acquiring the sewer system in 2011, Citizens has invested more than $1.2 billion in the utility to upgrade aging infrastructure, expand treatment capacity and for the ongoing construction of the DigIndy Tunnel System that will nearly eliminate sewer overflows to area waterways by 2025.

About Citizens Energy Group
Citizens Energy Group provides safe and reliable utility services to about 900,000 people in the Indianapolis area. Citizens operates its utilities for the benefit of customers and the community.

Media Contact Information
Laura O'Brien
Phone: 317-519-1515
Email: media@citizensenergygroup.com