NEW ORLEANS — In a press conference Tuesday, the new Director of New Orleans' Department of Public Works updated the city on its efforts to clean catch basins.
"Debris move removed to date is 1.2 million pounds. Catch basins completed to date is 2,200 catch basins. The total drain lines assigned are 389,000 linear feet," Clinton Hathaway said in his update.
While the department chips away at clearing out catch basins, Hathaway said residents could be a big help.
"It's crucial for residents to partner with the city in maintaining the cleanliness of catch basins. By taking ownership of the area in front of their homes, residents actively contribute to the overall cleanliness and functionality of the drainage system," Hathaway said.
Some residents like John Hernandez clean their catch basins, but they still see major flooding.
"It’s been horrible," Hernandez said. "With a heavy rain that lasts any length of time it floods."
Hernandez says he diligently cleans his catch basin and occasionally cleans the one across the street. We also spoke to Hernandez on April 10, when the city was flooding due to a heavy rain event. He told us then that the catch basin in front of his home seemed to be the only one working. When we visited him again Wednesday, he said he was grateful he recently saw crews on his street.
"I said this is a blessing because for 20 years I’ve been calling them," Hernandez said.
Hathaway says they're working to hire more crews, but sometimes the issue isn't with the catch basin; instead, the streets aren't draining because of an issue that lies under the jurisdiction of the Sewerage and Water Board.
There have been talks about consolidating the two departments to make it easier. But, whether they do or not, residents just want it not to flood.
"Let’s hope that works for the storm season," Hernandez said.
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