Many cities with combined sewer systems have problems with raw sewage overflows when it rains. These overflows contain not only stormwater, but also untreated human and industrial waste, toxic materials and debris. Combined sewer systems serve roughly 770 U.S. communities containing about 40 million people, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most communities with combined sewer systems are located in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions and in the Pacific Northwest. Indiana has more than 100 communities with combined sewers.
Under the Clean Water Act, Indianapolis and other communities must develop plans to reduce these overflows and protect human health and the environment.
Click here to see other cities in Indiana and across the country with combined sewers.