Lewes wastewater plant reopens after unexpected shutdown

About 7 a.m., March 9, the Lewes Wastewater Treatment Facility experienced an unexpected shutdown, leading to a minor overflow near American Legion Road.

“Thanks to the rapid and coordinated response of our skilled staff, the operator of the plant and Sussex County, the situation was quickly addressed with minimal impact to the surrounding area,” the Lewes Board of Public Works said in a press release.

Additional personnel were promptly dispatched to assess and resolve the issue, while multiple agencies assisted in containing and cleaning the affected roadway. The overflow was limited to the outer edge of American Legion Road, just outside the entrance to the wastewater facility.

As a precautionary measure, the City of Lewes and the Lewes Police Department were notified, and officers were deployed to manage traffic and secure the cleanup site.

By 1:30 p.m., wastewater plant operations were fully restored, and staff remained on site to monitor systems and oversee final cleanup efforts to ensure continued environmental safety.

For any questions or further information, contact the Lewes BPW General Manager Robin Davis at 302-644-5312.