As part of the Mayors Office’s efforts to correct decades worth of drain issues, a massive blocked storm drain channel that was not visible from the ground or air was found in an overgrown part of the city and cleared out. The area was found just north of the city warehouse, which, along with Gaines Street are known for their flooding.
The drain, which appeared to be an abandoned train trestle with multiple 5 foot wide culverts, was stopped up with items ranging from bar-b-que grills to tires and wheels, children’s toys and cross ties left from decades passed. The culverts were also largely filled with sand, rocks and dirt.
This area being clogged would have most likely caused backup in rain and floodwaters for Conley, Wood and Gaines Streets.
The massive clog was found by city drainage crews after walking the densely covered areas.
A road was cut in to the area and city workers were able to remove the stoppages.
