By Brenna Angel
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-906147.mp3
LEXINGTON, Ky. -- – For the next several months, Lexington streets could get smoky. The city's Department of Environmental Quality is entering its third and final year of testing for leaks in the sanitary sewer system by pumping smoke into the lines.
"Our leaking sanitary sewer system has been one of the biggest polluters of our creeks and streams. Finding and fixing these leaks is going to help us clean up our streams and improve our water quality."
Susan Bush, acting commissioner of the Department of Environmental Quality, says Lexington will spend approximately $3.5 million to repair sewer lines this year.
The projects will include removing tree roots from sewers, lining pipes, and replacing manholes. Larger problems will be addressed in a remedial measures plan to be discussed with the EPA.