The City of Grants Pass had a busy week responding to the effects of recent intense rainfall and advancing key infrastructure projects to prepare for future demands. The city’s Wastewater Collections and Streets and Drainage crews worked tirelessly to mitigate the impacts of heavy storms while ensuring critical systems remained operational.
The Wastewater Collections team has been actively inspecting the city’s wastewater system to identify potential vulnerabilities caused by recent rainfall. Their primary focus has been detecting groundwater infiltration and diverted stormwater flows that can overwhelm the system’s capacity. These inspections are vital to preventing disruptions and ensuring the long-term health of the city’s wastewater infrastructure.
Crews have also prioritized inspecting infrastructure that crosses over or through creeks, which are particularly susceptible to damage during periods of high water flow. During their inspections, the team identified a private sewer lateral under immense stress from heavy wood debris. By addressing this issue promptly, they were able to prevent further damage to the sewer line and avoid additional impacts on the creek.
The Streets and Drainage department spent considerable time over the weekend addressing the overwhelmed drainage system, which struggled to manage runoff from saturated ground conditions. Crews worked approximately 10 hours during the weekend to alleviate flooding and ensure that roads and drainage pathways remained as clear as possible.
In addition to managing the immediate storm impacts, crews continued cleanup efforts into the week, removing downed trees and other debris left behind by high water. Their work helped to restore normalcy to affected areas and prepare the city for any future weather events.
In preparation for the 2025 Sewer Replacement Project, the city is coordinating with subcontractor Michaels Utility Services, working under Avista Gas, to relocate gas utilities. This relocation is a crucial step to ensure that the sewer replacement project progresses smoothly during its implementation next summer and fall.
This week, crews encountered unlocated utilities during their work on Baker Street, highlighting the complexities of infrastructure projects and the importance of thorough planning and collaboration. The discovery underscores the need for meticulous mapping and coordination between utility services to minimize disruptions and avoid delays.
The city’s proactive approach in addressing storm-related challenges and advancing infrastructure improvements reflects its commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of vital systems. The efforts of Wastewater Collections and Streets and Drainage crews, combined with ongoing utility relocation work, demonstrate the importance of preparation, teamwork, and adaptability in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.
As Grants Pass continues to navigate the challenges of storm management and infrastructure updates, the dedication of city crews ensures that the community remains resilient and well-prepared for future demands. Residents are encouraged to report any concerns related to infrastructure or storm impacts to city officials to support these ongoing efforts.
