An estimated 25,000 to 50,000 gallons of sewage spilled into Lake Whatcom Wednesday, Sept. 11, after a contractor struck an underground sewer line as part of the Electric Avenue bridge repair project.
According to the City of Bellingham, as of noon, Thursday, Sept. 12, the sewer spill did not impact the city’s drinking water. The city’s water treatment plant is located a mile upstream, far from the site of the spill.
Portions of Bloedel Donovan Park have reopened after water quality testing was completed. The Lake Whatcom boat launch is open, but people are advised to avoid water contact near the canoe launch, swimming area and Scudder Pond.
The beach at Bloedel Donovan Park remains closed until full test results are received, according to the city.
“While we anticipate that the spill will dilute as it mixes with other waters, we are monitoring the situation closely to assess any potential downstream or ecological effects,” a news release from the City of Bellingham stated.
The city took swift action to contain the spill and minimize its impact, according to the release sent late Wednesday night. The line was shut off and sewer service was redirected to another line.
Lake Whatcom is the main source of drinking water for about 100,000 county residents.
The error occurred around 5 p.m. Wednesday when a contractor drove piles into the lake. The Electric Avenue Bridge has been closed to traffic since Monday and remains closed to traffic through Sept. 20. The city’s technology indicated the sewer line was located in a “different position,” according to the news release.
“The City of Bellingham is closely monitoring the situation and working with the contractor and regulatory agencies to address the spill and ensure the safety of the public and the environment,” the city said in the news release.
This story is developing, check back for updates.
Charlotte Alden is CDN’s general assignment/enterprise reporter; reach her at charlottealden@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 123.
