General Manager David Harleman reported that the project to reline aging manholes in the sewer system is under way during the Coplay Whitehall Sewer Authority's July 16 meeting.

"So far, we have completed 121 manholes," he said.

Harleman showed pictures of manholes repaired using a spray-on epoxy mixture.

The project is part of CWSA's program to reduce clear water infiltration into the sewer system.

The EPA sent out a mandate about three years ago requiring all customers of the Allentown Wastewater Treatment plant to reduce clear water infiltration into the system. Clear water, generally described as rainwater, does not need to be treated. Reducing clear water in the sewer lines extends the life of the treatment plant and reduces sewer rates.

CWSA has been the local leader in reducing infiltration in its system. Major renovation projects reduced infiltration significantly according to reports presented to the board by independent agencies.

Rainwater seeps into the system's aging, brick-lined manholes and adds to the system-wide infiltration problem. CWSA joined a program to apply an epoxy liner to the manholes. A third-party contractor did the work.

Originally, 85 manholes were targeted, but the system was working so well that Harleman expanded the program. Costs were based on unit pricing set in the original contract.

Harleman asked the board to approve a cost increase to $42,000. The original budgeted cost was $34,000. The board approved the expense.

Board Member Joseph Marx reported that home inspections for clear water infiltration are near 90 percent. Part of the EPA mandate requires CWSA to inspect each ratepayer's location to determine if rainwater is diverted into the sewer system. Staff at CWSA set up a special program to call customers to set up inspection appointments. The program has been effective, increasing participation from two-thirds of the ratepayers to the 90-percent level.

Darryl Jenkins, CWSA engineer, reported a necessary repair at Lehigh Valley Apartments.

"Groundwater follows the path of the sewer line to a low point on the property. The accumulation of water caused the pavement to settle," he said.

Jenkins proposed a resolution to the problem that calls for adding gravel under the sewer line to dissipate the water. No cost were attached to the project.

Attorney Jack Stover reported that PennDOT reimbursed ratepayers half the cost of moving a sanitary sewer and a manhole at the intersection of MacArthur Road and Main Street.