UPDATE 12/25: On Thursday night, JMB Construction issued a statement related to the announcement that debris from one of its construction sites, dumped into manholes, was responsible for the massive overflow of sewage in Marin:
SAN FRANCISCO — JMB Construction, based in South San Francisco, is currently investigating sewage overflows which occurred on December 17 and December 22 near our construction site in Kentfield, Calif.
Our firm is deeply committed to public safety and environmental responsibility, and the new lines installed by our firm were cleaned and video inspected prior to being placed in service in August of 2010. While we are confident that we have fulfilled our trust in carrying out our obligations, we are working diligently and cooperatively alongside Ross Valley Sanitary District’s personnel to assess and mitigate the damage caused. The causes contributing to this unfortunate situation are being examined, though we are aware that on both occasions, the overflow accidents occurred during heavy periods of rain and when the Kentfield pump station was shut down, each a possible cause of sewage flows that overwhelmed the system.
Our 20-year old company has an excellent record of safety and regulatory compliance, and we are proud to maintain a responsible, skilled and experienced workforce.
Also:
- Marin County sewage spill estimate triples (SF Chronicle)
Original post 12/23
Yesterday afternoon, the Ross Valley Sanitary District issued a rather startling press release, titled:
“Construction Debris Causes 842,000 Gallon Sewer Spill in Kentfield. Large Pieces of Asphalt, Rubber, Hardhats, and Wire Nest Pulled From New Sewer Pipes.”