Storm drains getting attention
Emporium Borough addressing 4th St. flooding

Pipe-Eye will has been hired to solve the borough's storm sewer drainage issues.

Emporium is taking steps to address flooding problems in the business district during periods of heavy rain.

A Bradford firm will attempt to unclog storm sewage pipes in the problem area, believed to be somewhere between Fourth and Chestnut streets. The company uses a large suction device to clear debris and an advanced camera system to survey the infrastructure and locate other clogs.

Borough Council members agreed to pay $1,560 daily for up to four days. Depending on what's found in an area beneath Third Street, a catch basin could be installed to reduce flooding.

Other alternatives have been explored over the past couple of years, including line replacement, which would cost in excess of $125,000.

On a related note, Councilman Max Narby, fire and safety chairman, is coordinating the removal of debris from waterways to lessen flooding. He plans to schedule a meeting for citizens who are interested in volunteering to help. Narby also said funding sources need to be investigated.

In other business, Council:

• announced that Fall Cleanup will be held on Oct. 27 from 8 a.m. to noon. Refuse can be taken to the borough shed located on Second Street. Elderly and disabled residents can arrange pickups by calling 486-0890.

• heard a request from Councilwoman LuAnn Reed that the borough review its outdoor burning regulations.

• reported that a survey will be conducted for the residents of what is now Sixth Street Extension to determine if their home addresses should once again be changed to accommodate emergency services dispatching.

• heard from Police Chief Rufus Jones that a public meeting to discuss starting a Block Watch crime prevention organization in Emporium will be held this month.