For immediate release
June 24, 2024
Media contact: Steven Jahnke, Director of Public Works and City Engineer, at 507-377-4325 or [email protected]

Albert Lea wastewater spill contained, long-term repairs underway

The City of Albert Lea has contained a spill of wastewater from a break in the sewer main along South Shore Drive that carries wastewater from Albert Lea to its treatment plant. While the Public Works Department is evaluating long-term repair options, the city advises the public to:

Be aware that South Shore Drive is closed until further notice between Rooster Hill Road and County Road 81
Avoid swimming and other contact with water in Albert Lea Lake until high water levels recede
Stay out of barricaded areas

The wastewater main break has no impact on the drinking water system. Also, Albert Lea residents and businesses may continue to discharge wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, washing machines and other services.

Although the National Weather Service’s flood warning for Freeborn County expired this morning, several streets, trails and parks remain closed in Albert Lea. It may take days for flood waters to recede as stormwater drains through the local chain of lakes. Water levels in Fountain Lake have peaked, but Albert Lea Lake levels are still rising. People should avoid swimming in lakes and streams due to the potential for debris in the water.

The Albert Lea Wastewater Treatment Plant continues to process much more water than average due to stormwater entering the system from residential sump pumps and groundwater seeping into sewer lines. The plant processes an average of 4 million gallons of wastewater a day before discharging the treated wastewater to the Shell Rock River.

However, the plant processed 18-20 million gallons a day on June 22-23 after Albert Lea received more than 3 inches of rain in 48 hours and more than 7 inches in the past week. The plant continues to see significantly higher flows of wastewater.

The city urges property owners with sump pumps to make sure they are discharging to the street or stormwater system, not the wastewater system.

For more information, follow City of Albert Lea – City Hall” on Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/cityofalbertlea/

The City of Albert Lea’s mission is to deliver exceptional services that enhance the quality of life for current and future generations.