Like many Midwestern cities, Indianapolis has polluted waterways because of raw sewage overflows, failing septic tanks and inadequate stormwater drainage systems—all of which cause sewage or untreated water to overflow or leach into our streams.
Raw sewage has been overflowing into our streams for years because of our antiquated sewer system. As little as a quarter inch of rain causes raw sewage to spill into our streams and waterways. Raw sewage in our streams is a health hazard, smells and looks disgusting, hurts our environment and harms the quality of life in our neighborhoods.
These problems make it more difficult to attract new businesses, jobs and residents as a world-class city. All three issues must be addressed to reach our clean stream goals.