URGENT UPDATE: In a groundbreaking announcement, St. Louis officials have revealed plans to expand the River Des Peres tunnel system, which is crucial for the city’s wastewater management. This expansion will add 15 to 16 miles of tunnels, reaching depths of up to 250 feet underground, and aims to enhance wastewater capacity by an astounding 300 million gallons.
Just announced earlier today, the existing tunnel system, which runs more than 30 feet beneath St. Louis’ Forest Park, plays a vital role in managing the city’s wastewater. Originally created in the 1890s, much of the River Des Peres now flows hidden beneath the city, a legacy of rapid urbanization and inadequate wastewater treatment at the time.
As St. Louis grew, the river became a dumping ground, leading to significant public health concerns, especially before the 1904 World’s Fair. “Back then, there was no wastewater treatment. Everything went straight into the River Des Peres,” stated Sean Stone, Senior Public Affairs Specialist at the St. Louis Metropolitan Sewer District. “This led to a need for a more permanent solution, resulting in the tunnels we see today.”
Officials urge residents to steer clear of the tunnels, which are active and pose serious health risks. “This is not a typical river. It contains a mixture of wastewater from homes, including washing machines, sinks, and toilets,” Stone cautioned, highlighting the dangers of sewer gas and hydrogen sulfide.
Heavy rainfall has recently aggravated conditions, causing rapid water rises in the tunnels. “With consistent rain in the spring, we’ve seen tunnels fill quickly, creating unsafe environments,” Stone added.
The original tunnel system, recognized as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1988, was constructed using steam shovels and manual labor, a remarkable feat for its time. Today’s engineering advancements contrast sharply, employing massive tunnel boring machines that can dig over miles with precision.
While there are no immediate plans to expand the existing tunnel network, the upcoming project is slated for completion by the late 2030s. This expansion will significantly alleviate pressure on the current system and ensure the city’s wastewater management can handle future demands.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story, as the River Des Peres tunnel expansion is set to reshape St. Louis’s infrastructure and public health landscape. This is a story that impacts every resident and is critical for the future of the city.
