CFPUA: Failed manhole sewer guard causes 5,250 gallon overflow

Wilmington, NC (WWAY) —  Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) crews responded to a sanitary sewer overflow Friday caused by a failed manhole sewer guard.

A spokesman with CFPUA said the guard fell down into the manhole, blocking its flow and causing the overflow. The incident was reported at 5:45 p.m. at the intersection of Willoughby Park Court and Honey Bee Lane in Monkey Junction.

CFPUA crews and contractors worked to clear the blockage. The spokesman said the overflow ended at around 2 a.m. Saturday. He said about 5,250 gallons of untreated wastewater overflowed,  which entered a storm drain tributary to Motts Creek.

CFPUA Environmental Management staff members have conducted water quality testing at various locations at and around the site and initial results are expected within the next 24 hours.

This incident is under further investigation by CFPUA and has been reported to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality.