Old Rouge Rivers to Detroit Sewage Treatment Plant

Construction of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, at the conjunction of the Detroit and Rouge Rivers, was authorized by City Council in 1925. The Board of Water Commissioners consulted on this huge undertaking with the citys Department of Public Works, which at that time was responsible for operation and maintenance of the sewer system. Meanwhile, the portion of the Detroit River Interceptor (DRI) from the Fairview Station to Downtown Detroit was built between 1925-28. During this time as well, the Northwest Interceptor in the Rouge River Valley District was begun, and Connor Creek and Fox Creek were enclosed.

Spectacular growth of the auto industry led to rapid development of Detroits east side, causing flow through the Fairview Sewer to exceed capacity; particularly during storms. To deal with the problems caused by sewage overflows, portions of the East and West Jefferson Avenue Relief Sewers were constructed in 1930.

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