Senator Sanders Provides Update to Community on Sewage Spill Affecting SE Queens

Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale Village, Far Rockaway) joined Mayor de Blasio and other Queens elected officials for an emergency press conference yesterday to update the community on issues stemming from a sewage main blockage that occurred over the weekend, damaging hundreds of homes in Southeast Queens.

"This is a terrible and unfortunate incident to have happened, especially around the holidays," Sanders said. "My office will be working with the city and all of the appropriate agencies to help affected homeowners recover and resume their busy lives."

The exact cause of the blockage is unknown and still being investigated. The affected pipe, which is located 40 feet below ground, carries sewage from the community to a treatment center. The blockage sent foul waste spilling into basements and flooding homes. Heavily impacted areas include the section of Jamaica near the Belt Parkway and Kennedy Airport. 

The city has added a pump around system (a pipe at ground level that can carry the sewage away from the area), while the main pipe is being excavated, examined and repaired. Mayor de Blasio told residents that the water in their homes is safe to drink because it is transported through different pipes. 

Residents impacted by the flooding should file a claim with their insurance company and the Comptroller’s Office to cover any damage from the sewage. The city has set up an emergency center at the Courtyard Marriott, 145-11 North Conduit Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11436, to provide affected residents with resources. 

Senator Sanders has a limited supply of cleaning kits available for pick up at his District Office for those who need the proper gear.