Sewer main break causes wastewater spill

KAILUA-KONA — An estimated 16,600 gallons of wastewater was released after a 12-inch diameter sewer pipeline broke Monday morning in the Waikoloa Beach Resort area.

The company said Hawaii Water staff set up barricades, cones, and warning tape to restrict public access as soon as they arrived at the scene. The utility also mobilized its pumper truck, excavator equipment, and private pumper truck contractors to assist in bypassing the sewage pump station to enable repair of the pipeline. The break was reported at 9:14 a.m. alongside Waikoloa Beach Drive.

Crews spent the night excavating the pipe and making repairs. The cause of the break is still being evaluated.

The company said it determined that 16,600 gallons leaked above-ground. The company added wastewater did not enter any waterways at anytime.

Hawaii Water has reported the spill and is working with the appropriate government agencies, including the Hawaii State Department of Health Wastewater Branch.

“This is the first sewer main break we’ve experienced here since taking over the Waikoloa Resort system in 2008, and our crews are working diligently to complete repairs to the main,” said Tony Carrasco, Hawaii Water general manager, in a press release. “Being able to respond quickly also enabled us to keep the spill from impacting the environment.”

Hawaii Water serves about 4,200 service connections in the communities of Kaanapali, Pukalani, Waikoloa, North Kona , and the Kohala Coast on the islands of Maui and Hawaii. Hawaii Water is a subsidiary of California Water Service Group.

Info: Visit www.hawaiiwaterservice.com.