Crews working on Holmes Run accidentally damaged a sewer line

Crews working on the Holmes Run stream restoration project inadvertently damaged a 30-inch terra cotta sewer line owned by Fairfax County, the City of Alexandria reported Aug. 12. The sewer line crosses Holmes Run near Chambliss Street in Lincolnia.

A small amount of sewage escaped from the broken pipe until the contractor, Avon construction company, was able to remove debris, which enabled the sewage to pass through the pipe without escaping. Fairfax County was immediately notified, and county workers, who were nearby, were able to divert the flow away from the break via an upstream structure within minutes after the incident.

“It was determined there was no detrimental impact on the Holmes Run or life within,” the City of Alexandria states, and “no customers were affected.” As soon as Avon completes the repairs, the sewer main will be back in service. The work will continue tonight, and nearby residents might be disturbed by noise and lights.