Chattanooga Sewage Spill Sends 500,000–700,000 Gallons Into Creek

A continuing sanitary sewer overflow is sending an estimated 500,000 to 700,000 gallons of wastewater into South Chickamauga Creek in Chattanooga, prompting a closure of the creek downstream of the Greenway pedestrian bridge to swimming, kayaking and fishing. City officials suspect aging infrastructure is to blame, and say replacing the pipes could cost $5 million to $7 million; crews are working to contain the spill and repair the system. Officials have reported no immediate risk to aquatic life, but environmental advocates warn that sewage can deplete oxygen in the water and threaten wildlife, including the endangered Chickamauga crayfish. The city plans to monitor or test water quality before reopening recreational areas, and is urging the public to avoid contact with affected water.