Town of Newfane announces containment of sewer main break, next steps for repairs

Press release

Town of Newfane Supervisor John Syracuse announced a sewer main break first identified on March 3 has been successfully contained.

At approximately 10:30 a.m. on March 3, a Town of Newfane employee discovered a break in a 12-inch sewer main. Emergency response operations were immediately initiated. As of 1 a.m. March 10, crews successfully completed containment and established a full bypass system to manage wastewater flow while permanent repairs are planned.

The town worked closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation throughout the response to ensure that all safety, environmental and regulatory compliance protocols were strictly followed.

“This was a complex situation that required coordination among multiple departments and private contractors,” Syracuse said. “Our crews and partners worked around the clock to contain the break while ensuring the safety of workers on site and protecting the surrounding environment.”

The bypass system was installed through a coordinated effort involving crews from Mark Cerrone Construction, Xylem Dewatering Solutions, and employees from the town’s wastewater treatment plant, Highway Department and Water Department. These teams worked in unison to stabilize the situation and safely complete the emergency bypass operation. The town’s engineers from Wendel were also instrumental in ensuring this process was completed to specifications.

Additional support was provided by Core & Main of Lockport, which played an important role in quickly delivering the materials necessary to complete the containment work. Mahar Excavating and Septic, along with Creekside Septic, worked around the clock to ensure all discharge was collected and transported to the town’s wastewater treatment facility for proper processing.

With the immediate situation stabilized, the town’s next phase of work will involve evaluating replacement options for the failed section of pipe. Engineers and staff will determine the most appropriate replacement material – such as PVC or other suitable alternatives – and will schedule excavation and replacement of the damaged sewer main.

Town officials will continue working with the NYSDEC and project partners to ensure the repair process proceeds safely and efficiently.

“We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved and the patience of our residents while crews addressed this issue,” Syracuse said. “Our focus now is on implementing a durable repair that will protect this infrastructure for the long term.”