City of La Crosse asks residents to help clear storm drains

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) – The City of La Crosse needs the community’s help keeping the streets safe.

During this time of year, between the melting and freezing, storm drains can cause some big problems.

So its asking residents to shovel out drains near their homes.

Accumulating ice and sediment causes flooding in the streets, which can even seep into houses.

Plus, it’s a hazard for pedestrians and drivers.

Crews are out clearing them but with thousands of drains around the city, it’s hard to keep up.

The Utility Department says it doesn’t take much to make a difference.

“We always encourage residents that if they can safely get out there, they just need to get a little water flowing and it will melt itself open. If you feel unsafe out there or it’s too hard, please call us and we can get a crew out there,” said Bernard Lenz, Utility Manager for the City of La Crosse.

The city has more than 6,000 storm drains.

If you see one that needs to be cleared call 608-789-7536

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