Sewer overflows in Hickory Creek near Old Alton Bridge

A sewer overflow of more than 100,000 gallons is being repaired in southern Denton County.

A pump failure at the Hickory Creek Lift Station, near the Old Alton Bridge, on Sunday morning resulted in the sewer overflow, according to a news release from the city of Denton.

City staff responded immediately to the station and temporarily diverted the overflow until repairs are made. They are investigating the cause of the failure and extent of the overflow.

The public is asked to avoid trails and other public spaces in the immediate vicinity of Old Alton Bridge.

Samples of Hickory Creek will be tested on an ongoing basis to determine any impacts to water quality. City staff will continue to monitor the creek conditions and implement precautionary measures as needed. Staff from the city’s Watershed division are currently monitoring the stream upstream and downstream of the discharge, according to the news release.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality requires the city to notify the public and all appropriate government officials of overflows that exceed 100,000 gallons in a single drainage basin.

Hickory Creek flows into Lake Lewisville, a major drinking water source for Denton County and North Texas.