Connecticut Lawmakers Concerned With Sewage In River From Holyoke

Two Connecticut State Representatives are critical of Holyoke's ability to control sewage releases - after more than seven million gallons of untreated sewage were dumped in the Connecticut River.

State Rep Devin Carney of Old Saybrook and Tami Zawistowski of Suffield have written to the EPA seeking an immediate end to the practice.

Both state reps have districts that border the Connecticut River.

“We are deeply troubled by the ongoing wastewater discharge issues affecting the Connecticut River, particularly the recent Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) events from upstream municipalities in Massachusetts that directly impact downstream communities in our state. When these discharges occur, you can actually see some of the solid waste from untreated sewage floating down with the current. We have video footage of this.”

“The Connecticut River is a vital resource for our state’s communities, economy, and environment. We cannot accept that our water quality and public health are routinely compromised by inadequate wastewater infrastructure in upstream states. Your immediate action is needed to protect Connecticut’s interests and ensure the long-term health of this critical waterway. We look forward to your prompt response and concrete actions to address these urgent concerns,” Reps. Zawistowski and Carney wrote.

Meantime, Holyoke officials say they are currently working under a consent decree that is mandating a sewer separation project of more than 10 million dollars.

Mayor Joshua Garcia says that the city is well aware of all the issues and is working with the EPA.

EPA officials however have not responded to the Connecticut Lawmakers concerns yet.

(Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)