During routine inspections, Aurora Water Operations found significant hydrogen sulfide damage and deterioration in the manholes around 19th Ave between Florence St and Elmira St. High levels of hydrogen sulfide in sanitary sewers can cause concrete corrosion over time. Corroded sewer pipes, manholes, and other structures make the whole sewer system vulnerable to pipe collapses, leaks, infiltration, root invasion, and other serious issues. The sanitary sewer system in this area was installed in the 1950s and no record drawings exist for the infrastructure. The manhole material ranges from precast concrete to brick manholes. The actual construction dates for the manholes are unknown. Aurora Water Engineering worked with Operations to gather a list of structures that needed a more detailed inspection. The manholes were located around 19th Ave and near North Sable Boulevard adjacent to Tollgate Creek, a manhole at the intersection of Galena Street and East Cherokee Trail, and on East 13th Avenue between Joliet Street and Kingston Street.
Aurora Water, with engineering firm Mott MacDonald, has determined that four manholes will need to be replaced with another six in need of rehabilitation. This will include the installation of an external drop for one manhole, coating and lining of affected areas, and replacements of whole manholes when necessary to restore the integrity of the system.
