EPA, Perth Amboy Reach Agreement on Sewer System

Perth Amboy officials will upgrade the city's combined sewer system as part of an agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency to address Clean Water Act violations.

The agreement was signed Wednesday in federal court in Washington.

EPA officials say Perth Amboy violated previously issued agency orders to address complaints about the maintenance, inspection and operation of its sewer system.

Environmental officials say the violations and an improperly functioning sewer system can create public health risks.

The city has agreed to repairs that will cost about $5.4 million, and must pay an additional $17,000 penalty.

They've also agreed to reduce the amount of sewage and other pollutants that flow out of 16 combined sewer points into the Raritan River and Arthur Kill.

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