Wastewater escapes sewer lines

GAINESVILLE - Up to 1,000 gallons of wastewater may have flowed into Flat Creek recently because of a crack in a Gainesville sewer line.

The problem occurred in a pipe joint on Pine Street between Summit and High streets, and involved between 500 and 1,000 gallons, according to city officials.

"One of our Environmental Specialists discovered the release during a routine creek walk inspection," said Steve Payne, Environmental & Treatment Division Manager for the Gainesville Public Utilities Department. "The release occurred due to a crack in a pipe joint."

Payne said the problem was corrected and the (Georgia) Environmental Protection Division was notified.

Flat Creek is a tributary of Lake Lanier.