Chapel Hill initiates pump replacement and sewer system upgrades amid CSO project challenges

The Town of Speedway, Indiana, held a departmental budget meeting on August 19, 2025, to discuss key expenditures for the upcoming 2026 budget. The meeting focused on essential infrastructure improvements, particularly concerning the town's sewer system and related equipment.

One of the primary agenda items was the allocation of $150,000 for new pumps at the Chapel Hill Lift Station. These pumps, which are nearly 40 years old, are critical to the town's wastewater management. The discussion highlighted the need for a full replacement and rebuild of the lift station, which is currently being prioritized alongside a new force main project on the west side of town. However, the timing of these projects may not align perfectly, as the town is also addressing issues related to combined sewer overflow (CSO) events.

The meeting revealed that the town experienced two CSO events this year, both occurring in April, which resulted in approximately 9 million gallons of overflow. The proposed improvements aim to treat wastewater before it is released into the environment, thereby reducing violations related to untreated overflows. The planned upgrades include a cloth disc filter and UV treatment to eliminate harmful substances from the wastewater.

Another significant budget item discussed was the proposed $600,000 for the replacement of the Vactor truck, a specialized vehicle used for cleaning sewer lines. The current truck is nearing 20 years of service, and the replacement is deemed necessary to maintain effective sewer maintenance operations. The town aims to clean about 30% of its sewer system annually, with the goal of addressing buildup and blockages caused by roots and grease.

Additionally, the budget includes $100,000 for lining 25 manholes, which is part of an ongoing effort to reduce groundwater infiltration into the sewer system. This initiative is expected to help mitigate overflows and improve overall system efficiency. The manhole lining will utilize high-quality epoxy materials to ensure durability and longevity.

The meeting concluded with a reminder to residents about proper waste disposal practices, emphasizing the importance of not flushing inappropriate items that could exacerbate sewer issues. The council plans to finalize budget discussions in October and November, including potential sewer rate increases to fund these critical projects. Overall, the meeting underscored the town's commitment to enhancing its wastewater infrastructure and addressing environmental compliance challenges.