Utilities Division
3001 West 124th Avenue
303.438.6334

After-hours Emergencies: 303.438.6400

Wastewater Collection Operations

The Wastewater Collection System gathers wastewater from homes and conveys it to the Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Collection personnel are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the collection system, which includes gravity sewers, manholes, force mains, pumping stations, and other facilities that collect and convey wastewater to the Wastewater Reclamation Facility.

Crews use a TV Inspection process to inspect and determine the location of problem areas, such as obstructions, cracks, service connections, infiltration, and roots. Video inspection provides a means of accurate recordkeeping by identifying the exact location of problem areas, service connections, and lost or buried manholes.  It also helps establish priorities for repair or replacement work in older areas.  A sewer line inspection program was established in 1998 following the purchase of a new television inspection van. This unit works in conjunction with  the division's jet cleaning program to identify sections of  main line requiring abnormal maintenance and/or possible rehabilitation or replacement.  Utility Services uses this unit for inspection of new lines prior to acceptance as well as for inspection of existing city-maintained lines.

Pipeline Cleaning is performed with a truck-mounted high-velocity cleaner and vacuum that is equipped with an assortment of nozzles and accessories. It is a very effective tool for preventive maintenance and is efficient in removing grease, grit, sand, gravel, and debris from the wastewater collection mains. In addition, it is used in clearing emergency stoppages. One-half of the collection system is cleaned with a jet rodding machine each year on a rotation schedule.

The Manhole Maintenance program removes built-up solids, vacuums, washes and cleans, inspects steps and interior, and raises rings to match street elevation.

Lift Stations are used in low areas of the collection system to pump wastewater uphill where elevation is not suitable for gravity system.  Lift stations vary in size and type depending on the amount of flow and the difference in elevation. The Utilities Division operates and maintains eight wastewater lift stations.

Customer Service personnel provide information on pipeline sizes and flows as well as respond to sewer calls and backups. Coordinate wastewater collection system improvements and projects such as main line replacement and/or slip line rehabilitation, assist in new construction areas and walk-through inspections.

Water Distribution

Wastewater Collection

Find out who to call for your question or concern regarding the Utilities Division or other Public Works areas or email Public Works.