Kearney Launches Project to Combat Rainwater Infiltration

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The City of Kearney is embarking on a major infrastructure project aimed at reducing the inflow and infiltration (I/I) of rainwater into its sanitary sewer system. The effort targets the area east of I-35, stretching from Loren Pointe in the north to Melinda Drive in the south, and running near Jefferson, Prospect, and Washington streets.

Set to begin in August and wrap up by the end of the year, the project is designed to bolster the reliability of Kearney’s sewer system and help protect residents and businesses from sewer-related issues such as backups and flooding.

Over the coming months, crews will be busy inspecting and upgrading the sewer system within the project boundaries. The work will start with camera inspections of the pipes to identify sources of I/I—places where rainwater and groundwater are entering the system through cracks, holes, or faulty connections. Once identified, targeted repairs will follow, including sealing manholes and repairing damaged pipes.

While the city aims to keep disruptions to a minimum, residents will notice trucks and equipment in the area, particularly around sewer manholes. At times, roadwork may lead to temporary lane closures or require drivers to slow down and follow flagger instructions.

Inflow and infiltration occur when rainwater or groundwater sneaks into the sanitary sewer system, usually through aging or damaged pipes. This extra water can overwhelm the wastewater system, increasing the risk of backups into homes and businesses, adding strain to sewer lines, and raising long-term maintenance costs.

By reducing I/I, the project will help:

  • Lower the risk of sewage backups during storms

  • Strengthen and extend the life of the city’s sewer infrastructure

  • Save money by minimizing costly emergency repairs and maintenance

  • Improve wastewater treatment efficiency and environmental protection by reducing peak flows to the treatment plant

The city encourages all property owners in the project area to check for improper connections—such as sump pumps, downspouts, or drainage systems—that may be directing stormwater into the sanitary sewer. Residents should correct any issues and report sewer backup problems to the city as soon as possible.

Updates on the project will be posted regularly at kearneymo.us and on the City of Kearney’s Facebook page. By working together, the city and its residents can ensure a more reliable, efficient, and cost-effective sewer system for years to come.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story