Princeton Mayor Evaluates Flood Infrastructure Setup
Thompson Street Lagoon Helps Prevent Basement Flooding, City Offers Free Check Valves
The lagoon on Thompson Street, which takes in storm water, has proven to be a valuable asset in preventing wet basements in the area. This lagoon helps manage the influx of water during heavy rainfall by gradually letting storm water back into the sewer system, thus reducing the risk of basement flooding.
In an effort to further protect homes from flooding, the City is offering free check valves to eligible residents. These valves are designed to block wastewater and stormwater from backing up into home drains during heavy rain when the municipal storm water system reaches capacity.
To be eligible for the free check valves, residents must have basements that are at risk of flooding due to the municipal sanitary and storm water connection system. It is crucial to consult a licensed plumber to determine if your area uses a combined or separate sewer system, as this affects the number and placement of required check valves. Proper maintenance is also essential: check valves must be regularly verified and maintained to ensure they function effectively.
Installation of these check valves, which come in both 4" and 6" sizes, is subsidized or free, making it more affordable for homeowners to implement flood prevention measures. The valves prevent flood waters, including sewage and stormwater, from backing up into your home’s drains during heavy rainfall events, thereby reducing the risk of basement flooding and protecting property and health.
Combined with other home protection measures (like sealing cracks, installing submersible pumps), the free check valves form a key part of a comprehensive flood prevention strategy. Some cities even offer grants or shared cost programs to cover installation or additional flood mitigation devices beyond free valves, but specifics depend on your municipality and are separate from the free check valve offering.
Mayor Ray Mabry recently reviewed improvements in infrastructure at Monday's City Council meeting, noting that only 3 lift stations remain to get refunded refurbished. Over the last few years, improvements have gone into the city's lift stations. It is important to note that it is illegal for sump pumps to discharge into the city sewer, according to Mayor Mabry.
In summary, the free check valves require homeowner eligibility assessment and proper maintenance, and their main benefit is effective prevention of sewage/stormwater backflow into basements during heavy rain, significantly reducing flood risk.
The free check valves, designed to block sewage and stormwater from backing up into home drains, serve as an essential part of a flood prevention strategy for homes at risk of flooding due to the municipal connection system. During heavy rainfall, these valves help protect homes from basement flooding, reducing risks to property and health.
