The City will be conducting a dye test of the sewer and stormwater system within the Sycamore Neighborhood. The work will occur on May 6, and will last one day, starting at 8 a.m.
Work involves opening manholes and catch basins in City streets and public utility easements, and introducing a special, non-toxic dye.
The City has noticed a large volume of water entering the sewer system in this area during large storm events. Recently, the City pinpointed the issue to a small stormwater system in the Sycamore neighborhood, using a smoke test. The next step is to insert a nontoxic dye into the storm system, and using a pipe camera in the sewer line, to determine what is occurring. Because of the storm systems proximity to Lewis Creek, there is a possibility that some of the dye will enter the stream. The dye is non-toxic and not harmful to fish or other aquatic species. It will dissipate within a few hours.
Please contact Matt Ellis, Senior Engineer, at 425-837-3410 or by email if you have questions or concerns. Thank you for your patience while we test and maintain our sewer systems in your neighborhood.