VENTNOR - The Atlantic County Utilities Authority provided an update Wednesday evening on the status of the ongoing sewer line repair on Wellington Avenue.
Cleaning Efforts
Two Jet-Vac trucks were deployed to initiate cleanup on the affected streets and sidewalks. Residue was vacuumed up and then clean, pressurized water was used to wash the roadways and sidewalks. Streets completed today include Victoria, Surrey, Somerset, Oxford and Dudley avenues. This same equipment will be used to clean the storm drain system along the southeast side of Wellington Avenue on Friday.
Repair Work
ACUA's emergency contractor has completed the excavation for the bypass line on the north side of the leak and continues work to excavate and prepare the pit for the bypass connection on the south side of the leak. Piping has been fused and the site is being prepared for the installation and activation of a 660' bypass line. Tapping saddles are anticipated to be installed and the fused pipe connected Thursday, which would enable the activation of the bypass by Friday night.
Addressing Flooding Issues
Four large Godwin pumps were delivered Wednesday morning. The largest pump is located at the site of the break. Two additional pumps can be moved as needed, and another pump is on site as backup. Pumping began around 1:30 p.m. Wednesday afternoon. Pumps should not be necessary after the bypass is activated but will remain on site in case there is a need to drain water from the area.
Water Testing
Water sampling was conducted Tuesday at six locations selected by Atlantic County Department of Health and NJDEP. Test results showed an elevated level of bacteria that exceeds the acceptable thresholds in three of the six locations sampled (see below).
Following the activation of the bypass, subsequent testing will be performed to monitor water quality improvement. As a precaution, the NJDEP has issued a notice of suspension of shellfish harvesting from the Lakes Bay area until it can be assured that the waterways are safe for shellfish harvesting.
Trash and Recycling
Wednesday's regular residential collection of trash and recycling collection in Ventnor Heights has been moved to Saturday, Feb. 27. Residents on the impacted area of Wellington Avenue (where traffic is prohibited) are advised to move their trash and recycling carts to the nearest side street for collection.
